Baku’s statements about Ukraine are game against Russia – Vladislav Shurygin

Speaking with Alpha News, military expert Vladislav Shurygin commented on Russia-Azerbaijan relations, given the ongoing contacts between Baku and Kyiv. He believes there are forces in Azerbaijan seeking to distance the country from Russia.

“We must understand that Aliyev is pursuing his own policy; he doesn’t seem to take Russia into consideration. His goal is to survive, because he finds himself in a very difficult situation. On the one hand, he is under intense pressure from a pro-Turkish group, which is now becoming the dominant and decisive force. On the other hand, he is trying to maintain his own power and distance himself from everyone. He was counting on the United States, thinking Americans would help him in this matter, but Americans only gave him a pat on the back, and, essentially, he is now left alone. He tried to restore the damaged relations with Russia, with Putin, but it is clear this has achieved little, as the pressure from those pushing Azerbaijan further away from Russia remains immense. In this case, it must be absolutely clear that the statements related to Ukraine were not made directly by Aliyev. But there are people in his circle who are not afraid to speak on his behalf,” Shurygin said.

According to the expert, Ukraine will fuel hostility between Baku and Moscow.

“In terms of direct contact, there’s none between Ukraine and Azerbaijan, and Aliyev certainly doesn’t benefit from it directly. But as a game against Russia, this is a very effective strategy. Especially since Ukraine will always try to fuel this hostility here,” Shurygin concluded.