What was one of the reasons the British worried about Russian advances in the Balkans?

The British were particularly concerned about Russian advances in the Balkans because these movements had the potential to significantly impact trade routes in the Mediterranean. The Balkans serve as a strategic crossroads between Europe and Asia, and any shifts in power dynamics due to Russian expansion could lead to instability in the region. Such instability might threaten vital trade connections, which were crucial for British economic interests, especially considering their reliance on trade for resources and goods. Securing trade routes was essential for the British Empire, as the Mediterranean was a critical maritime pathway for the transport of goods, including those coming from colonial possessions. Therefore, concerns about the impact on Mediterranean trade were a legitimate source of anxiety for British policymakers at the time, as it could directly affect their economic well-being and geopolitical standing in the region.