Mongol Reconnaissance on the Western Caspian Shore

Timeline

1. 1223Southern Ukrainian steppe · UkraineAfter the great victory at the Kalka River, Jebe and Subutai did not press deep into the Rus' heartland but continued the western campaign on Ögedei Khan's orders, aiming to complete military reconnaissance of the western Kipchak steppe and the Caucasus direction.
2. 1223North Caucasus · North CaucasusThe Mongol army advanced west from the steppe, crossed the North Caucasus Mountains, defeated local Alans and other tribes, opened a route toward the Caspian, and captured some Alans to serve as guides.
3. 1223–1224Western Caspian shore · Western Caspian shoreThe Mongol vanguard reached the western shore of the Caspian Sea, made contact with local rulers and demonstrated military force. This reconnaissance marked the first time the Mongol Empire extended its power to the Caucasus and the Caspian shore, completing an initial strategic maneuver across the Eurasian continent.