During the Seven Years' War he distinguished himself in several battles against Prussian forces. After the victory at Kunersdorf over Frederick II of Prussia, Nikolay was sent to Saint Petersburg to deliver news of the victory to the commander in chief - for that service, he was made a colonel.
During the Seven Years' War, he demonstrated his military prowess by defeating Prussian forces in several battles. Following the victory at Kunersdorf against Frederick II of Prussia, Nikolay was dispatched to Saint Petersburg to convey the news of the triumph to the commander-in-chief, earning him a promotion to colonel for this service.