How did the Russians gain their freedom from the mongols?

The Russians gradually gained their freedom from Mongol rule, which had dominated the region since the early 13th century. The turning point came in the late 15th century when Ivan III, also known as Ivan the Great, successfully defied Mongol authority. He refused to pay tribute and led a campaign to consolidate Russian territories, ultimately defeating the remnants of Mongol power at the Battle of Kulikovo in 1380, although it wasn't until the late 15th century that the Mongol influence effectively waned. By the end of the 15th century, the Grand Duchy of Moscow had emerged as a significant power, marking the decline of Mongol control over Russia.