Izvestia: New escalation scenario between Armenia and Azerbaijan seems realistic

A new crisis has emerged in the relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Izvestia writes. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has given an interview, detailing numerous grievances against his neighbors. He stated that Yerevan should refrain from purchasing weapons and abandon “fascist ideologies,” and should agree to accept hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis in its territory.

Experts believe that Baku is thus preparing the ground for a new escalation. Overall, the Azerbaijani leader openly speaks of his readiness for a new war. Additionally, he indicated that the Armenian leadership must take geopolitical realities into account. The fact is that Armenia’s main allies are currently facing significant challenges.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced his resignation; governmental chaos continues in France; the “Soros era” has ended in the U.S.; Bashar al-Assad’s regime has collapsed in the Middle East. Expert on Caucasus issues Alexander Krilov argues that it is not in Azerbaijan’s interests to sign a peace treaty, as Baku can achieve more through force.

“A peace agreement would merely formalize the current situation. However, Armenia continues to weaken, and Azerbaijan believes that the dynamics are in its favor. In such circumstances, a new escalation scenario appears more realistic. At the same time, peace negotiations are likely to continue,” the expert noted.