What were the main goals and directions of Russian foreign policy in the reign of Alexander2?

During the reign of Alexander II, they returned to the foreign policy begun by Peter I, and the main goal was to expand the borders of the Russian Empire and strengthen the international authority of Russia.

Several directions can be defined. The first is expansion to the East. Central Asia and the Far East were annexed. But at the same time, Alaska was sold to the United States.

The second is the southern direction. After the war with the Ottoman Empire, Russia’s rights in the Black Sea were restored.

The third direction was aimed at strengthening ties with European states, including Austria.

In general, foreign policy during the reign of Alexander II can be considered successful, but high material costs and human losses during the annexation of new territories caused discontent among a certain part of Russian society.