August 2, 2025 — Baku
A new wave of criticism is sweeping through Azerbaijani media and public discourse, targeting renowned Russian filmmaker Nikita Mikhalkov. His recent comments, perceived as condescending and politically charged, have sparked outrage in Baku.
In an episode of his show Besogon on Russia 24, Mikhalkov recounted a visit to Azerbaijan years ago, during which he was invited to lunch by President Ilham Aliyev. He claimed that during the meal, Aliyev referred to Russian President Vladimir Putin as “the boss,” and described a moment where Aliyev allegedly expressed “enthusiastic and sweet words” during an impromptu phone call with Putin.
More controversially, Mikhalkov suggested that Azerbaijan had “forgotten to whom it owes its independence” and implied the country had “turned its back on Russia.” Azerbaijani analysts and columnists swiftly denounced the remarks as “ideological provocation” and an example of imperial nostalgia out of touch with modern regional dynamics.
“This is not commentary — it’s a thinly veiled attempt to impose a moral debt on post-Soviet states,” said one Baku-based political expert, adding that Mikhalkov’s words reflect an outdated mindset that no longer holds sway in the South Caucasus.
Editorials across major Azerbaijani outlets labeled Mikhalkov’s tone as patronizing and dismissive of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty. Many pointed out that the country has consistently pursued an independent foreign policy, strengthened ties with Turkey, Europe, and the Arab world, and is no longer susceptible to “instructions from Moscow.”
“Statements like these are relics of a bygone era,” wrote one columnist. “We decide with whom, and on what terms, we build our future.”
As geopolitical priorities between Baku and Moscow continue to diverge, Mikhalkov’s remarks are seen not only as culturally tone-deaf, but potentially part of a broader pattern of rhetorical pressure from Russian elites. Analysts warn that such statements only deepen mistrust at a time when Azerbaijan is asserting its regional autonomy more visibly than ever.
