Subutai's Return from the Western Expedition

Timeline

1. 1224North Caucasus · North CaucasusAfter completing reconnaissance of the Caspian's western shore, Subutai led his army back eastward from the northern foothills of the Caucasus, crossing the northern edge of the Kipchak steppe and beginning a year-long homeward march. Jebe had by then died of illness, and Subutai independently commanded the entire army's return east.
2. 1224–1225Kipchak steppe · Kipchak steppeSubutai's forces marched north along the steppe east of the Volga and the Ural Mountains, avoiding the devastated Rus' lands, and returned via the Kipchak steppe to the Mongol Empire's heartland, consolidating Mongol control over the steppe tribes along the way.
3. 1225Mongolian Plateau · Mongolian PlateauSubutai led the western expedition army back to the Mongolian Plateau and reported to Khan Ögedei, presenting intelligence on western geography, tribes, and military matters. The expedition lasted about six years and covered over ten thousand li, laying the groundwork for Batu's later western campaign and the Mongol conquest of Persia.