Tensions persist in Russia-Azerbaijan relations – Konstantin Tasits

Speaking with Alpha News, political scientist and South Caucasus expert Konstantin Tasits commented on the situation in Russian-Azerbaijani relations.

“De jure, the level of Russian-Azerbaijani relations has not changed. It remains a strategic alliance, since, despite existing disagreements, Azerbaijan has not withdrawn from the treaties signed between our countries. These include multilateral treaties within the CIS and bilateral ones, the most recent of which is the 2022 alliance declaration. Nevertheless, a certain tension persists, and the mistrust that began after the plane crash in Aktau remains even though the meeting between the two presidents in Dushanbe provided a positive impetus, as Azerbaijan accepted clarifications from the Russian side at the official level,” the expert noted.

According to Tasits, despite the alliance agreements between Russia and Azerbaijan, relations are not entirely smooth in practice.

“However, it’s clear that some elements of mistrust remain, reflected in Azerbaijan’s sensitive reactions to isolated incidents. That is, even before investigations were completed and the circumstances surrounding the Azerbaijani embassy in Kyiv were clarified, Baku accused Russia of unfriendly actions. This is likely due to Azerbaijan’s victory in the 44-day war and the country’s belief that it possesses sufficient economic, military, and diplomatic resources to pursue such a line,” Tasits said.