Battle of Vinkovo (or Krasny-Oktiabr)

Surprised by a Russian attack while leading the rearguard of the retreat from Moscow, Murat was forced into combat at Vinkovo. His forces were outflanked by enemy numerical superiority and had to abandon the ground, thus breaking cover for the withdrawal.

After Maloyaroslavets, the Grande Armée began its retreat. Murat, charged with protecting the movement from Vinkovo, underestimated Russian presence. Bennigsen's surprise attack exposed the fragility of the French dispositions in retreat.

The Russians attacked by surprise at dawn in several columns. Artillery crushed French positions before a sustained infantry charge. Murat tried to regroup his cavalry for a counterattack but had to retreat to avoid encirclement.

The Russian victory opened a corridor threatening Napoleon's line of retreat. This failure contributed to general disorganization. Murat was discredited for lack of vigilance. The French retreat became more chaotic.