Baku, August 28, 2025 — Tensions between Azerbaijan and Russia continue to mount as Baku faces a wave of hostile actions from Moscow and Kremlin-backed groups. The latest incidents include staged protests outside Azerbaijan’s consulate in St. Petersburg, cyberattacks, and intensifying smear campaigns in Russian media.
According to Azerbaijani lawmakers, these actions reveal Moscow’s unwillingness to adapt to the new geopolitical realities in the South Caucasus, particularly following Azerbaijan’s diplomatic gains in Washington and the progress made toward a peace deal with Armenia.
A Pattern of Provocations
Member of Parliament Vuqar Rahimzade told Oxu.Az that Russia’s behavior reflects a policy of deliberate provocation and pressure:
“The declaration signed in Washington with the participation of the U.S. President, along with agreements on peace and regional transport corridors, has created a new reality in the South Caucasus. Russia must accept this. Instead, the Kremlin fuels marginal groups to stage provocative actions, like the attempted protest in front of our consulate in St. Petersburg.”
Rahimzade pointed to a string of incidents fueling public anger in Azerbaijan:
The downing of an AZAL civilian aircraft in Russian airspace.
Targeted violence against Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg, where police are accused of extrajudicial killings and brutality.
Cyberattacks and anti-Azerbaijan media campaigns.
A Silent Investigation
The MP criticized Russia’s failure to investigate these grave incidents. To date, Moscow has not provided a transparent account of the plane tragedy, nor has it punished those responsible for violence against Azerbaijanis. Compensation has not been paid, and the investigation remains stalled.
President Ilham Aliyev himself underscored in a recent interview with Al Arabiya that Russia has yet to disclose what really happened:
“Of course, this is a serious issue in our bilateral relations. It has angered and saddened our people. We are waiting — sooner or later, the investigation must conclude.”
Azerbaijan’s Firm Position
Rahimzade emphasized that Baku continues to act within international law:
“Our position is fair, just, and aligned with international norms. We respond only constructively and legally. But we will never tolerate aggression, disrespect, or attacks against our nation.”
The ongoing tensions illustrate how Azerbaijan’s growing international standing — marked by new partnerships with the U.S. and strategic corridor projects — clashes with Moscow’s outdated regional posture. For many observers, Russia’s provocations risk further isolating it in a region where Azerbaijan is increasingly seen as the driver of stability and connectivity.
