Overview
Donduk Ombo, Ayuka's grandson, restored a strong khan's rule for a few years. He used the threat of leaving Russian protection to win the throne, then fought Russia's wars in the south.
Rise to Power
Opposed to his uncle Tseren Donduk, he led about 11,000 households to the Kuban around 1731 and sought Ottoman protection. When war between Russia and the Ottomans approached, he agreed to return to the Volga in 1735 in exchange for Russian support.
Rule and Achievements
- Was recognised as khan in 1737; an embassy to the Seventh Dalai Lama that year failed to bring back a seal
- Led Kalmyk forces in the Kuban campaigns of 1736–1739 against the Crimean Khanate and the Kuban Nogais
Legacy
He died in 1741. His Kabardian widow tried to secure power for her sons; when Russia chose Donduk Dashi instead, she went to Russia, and her sons were baptised as the Dondukov princes.