The Battle of Klushino occurred during the Polish–Russian War, which was primarily fueled by territorial disputes and the struggle for influence over the fragmented Russian state. The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth sought to capitalize on Russia's internal chaos, particularly following the Time of Troubles that had left the political landscape unstable. At Klushino, the Polish-Lithuanian forces, under the leadership of Hetman Stanisław Żółkiewski, were primarily composed of experienced soldiers, including winged hussars, who were renowned for their cavalry tactics and effectiveness in battle. In contrast, the Russian army, led by Mikhail Skopin-Shuisky, comprised a mix of troops with varying levels of training, facing issues such as lack of cohesion and logistics.The battle unfolded when the Polish-Lithuanian troops feigned retreat to draw the Russians into a position of vulnerability. Once the Russian forces advanced, the Polish-Lithuanian troops regrouped and launched a counter-offensive, employing superior tactics and discipline to rout their opponents decisively. The result was a clear Polish-Lithuanian victory, which bolstered their campaign efforts and allowed them to push deeper into Russian territory, ultimately leading them to Moscow.In the aftermath, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth established a temporary dominance over Moscow, even prompting the installation of a Polish prince to the throne. However, the impact of this battle was not just military; it significantly influenced the political landscape of Eastern Europe and marked a pivotal moment in the complex relationship between Poland, Lithuania, and Russia, shaping conflicts for decades. The victory at Klushino exemplified the effectiveness of the Polish-Lithuanian military structure amidst the turbulent backdrop of early 17th-century warfare.