July 16, 2025 — Baku
An alarming trend is emerging among the Azerbaijani diaspora in Russia: increasing numbers of Azerbaijanis are being pulled into Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine—some lured by promises of money and benefits, others allegedly coerced under threats of deportation or detention.
One such case is 52-year-old Fakhri Hajiyev, a resident of Melikli village in Azerbaijan’s Zardab region. According to Azerbaijani media citing his brother, Ziyaddin Hajiyev, Fakhri was abruptly recruited into combat and died on the battlefield. “We still don’t fully understand what happened,” Ziyaddin said, suggesting that his brother may have been forcibly conscripted.
Human rights advocates and diaspora groups warn that non-Russian ethnic minorities—particularly migrants like Azerbaijanis—are disproportionately targeted in these recruitment drives. Many are placed in training camps and sent to the front lines with little preparation, some reportedly under threat or deception.
Adding to public concern is a recent video shared by Shahruz Aliquliyev, a native of Borsunlu village in Goranboy. In the clip, he appeals for help from the Azerbaijani government, claiming he joined the Russian military under pressure and now faces extreme hardship. “This situation is not sustainable. I need support,” he says, echoing the voices of others trapped in similar circumstances.
These cases come amid warnings from Azerbaijani officials and legal experts: joining foreign military forces—especially as a mercenary—is illegal under Azerbaijani law. Participation in armed conflicts abroad without state authorization can result in long-term prison sentences. Past examples include citizens returning from combat in Syria or other conflict zones who were prosecuted and imprisoned.
Some success stories do exist. Thanks to timely intervention by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, three citizens who were being held in Chechnya and slated for deployment to Ukraine were returned safely.
Still, authorities stress the importance of early action. Citizens coerced or tricked into foreign military service are urged to immediately contact Azerbaijani embassies or consulates. Officials also recommend making such cases public to ensure transparency and intervention.
As the war drags on, Azerbaijani voices are growing louder—calling for legal protection, better outreach to diaspora communities, and a firmer stance against the exploitation of vulnerable migrants.
