Azerbaijani businessman Yusif Khalilov, owner of the Alekseyevsky Market in Russia’s Voronezh, has been released from custody and returned to Azerbaijan, according to APA.
Khalilov was arrested in August this year in Voronezh. His release was confirmed by his son, Simur Khalilov, who expressed gratitude to both the Azerbaijani and Russian governments for their roles during the difficult period.
“Our family felt the support of the Azerbaijani state throughout this challenging time. Today is a joyful day for us. On behalf of my family, I want to express deep gratitude to the Azerbaijani government and everyone who contributed to my father’s release,” Simur Khalilov said.
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He also thanked the Russian authorities, noting that his family has long-standing ties to the country.
“Russia is our family’s second homeland. I was born there, received my education, and still live in Russia. The state has always provided us with opportunities to study and work, and we are deeply thankful for that,” he added.
Khalilov’s release is seen by observers as part of ongoing efforts to protect the rights and interests of Azerbaijani citizens abroad, reflecting what many describe as the government’s broader commitment to the Azerbaijani diaspora under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership.


