The small fortress of Belaya which fell into the hands of the Commonwealth during the Time of Troubles was liberated by the Russian army during its offensive in 1632. It became guarded by a garrison of 1,000 soldiers under the commandership of the voivode Fyodor Volkonsky. He already distinguished himself in 1618 during the defence of Moscow against Władysław IV as well as during his successful operations against Crimean Tatar raids.