Zatulin: Russia’s modest behavior during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict allowed Aliyev to conduct a military operation
In an interview with Svobodnaya Pressa, Konstantin Zatulin, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee of the State Duma for the CIS and relations with Russian nationals abroad, commented on Azerbaijan’s $1 million assistance to Ukraine, stating that this seems strange only to those who have not analyzed Baku’s political strategy.
“Yes, Azerbaijan benefits from its interactions with Russia not only economically but also politically. During the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, our modest behavior allowed Aliyev to conduct a military operation there in 2023. And now the trial of the captured Karabakh leaders is beginning in Baku,” Zatulin noted. He noted that Azerbaijan is playing its own game while undoubtedly being a conduit for Turkish influence. The alliance with Ankara takes priority over relations with Moscow for Baku.
“I am not calling for a break in communications with Baku. However, it is essential to understand what the priorities of the current leadership of Azerbaijan are. They genuinely want to please the West, particularly the U.K., which has been a traditional participant in regional events. The Baku administration is very eager to satisfy the new U.S. administration. Their orientation is toward Turkey, and one might ask how voluntary this orientation is. It could also be imposed, considering that Azerbaijan has practically placed its armed forces at Turkey’s disposal,” Zatulin stated.
According to him, Azerbaijan also acts as a helper to Russia when it comes to gas supplies to Europe. In fact, Azerbaijan is a competitor, as it reviews contracts with Russia, but under sanctions, it is also beneficial for Russia to sell hydrocarbons through this republic.
Regarding the crash of an Azerbaijani plane, Zatulin pointed out that Aliyev does not spare Russia in this matter. “His behavior sharply contrasts with Moscow’s actions when they shot down our helicopter and killed our peacekeepers in the ambush. Now, Aliyev is continuously fostering anti-Russian sentiments against this backdrop,” the official noted.
