Feature 2

Political analyst Alexander Iskandaryan says the current calm between Armenia and Azerbaijan reflects reduced risks, not a finalized peace.

Armenian journalist Roman Bagdasaryan says direct dialogue has reshaped the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process, reducing the risk of escalation despite unresolved issues.

Azerbaijan is marking one year since an AZAL Embraer 190 operating flight J2-8243 crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 people. Preliminary findings cited by Azerbaijani officials point to external physical and technical interference in Russian airspace.

With New Year approaching, Azerbaijan’s car market is already reacting to the imminent expiration of import incentives for hybrid vehicles. Dealers warn that prices have begun rising and further increases are expected from January 2026.

As Russia and Iran push back against the TRIPP initiative, Azerbaijan is reshaping the South Caucasus through connectivity and post-conflict normalization-challenging long-standing geopolitical gatekeepers.

Russia is trying to regain leverage in the South Caucasus by encouraging Armenian revanchist forces, analyst warns.

Azerbaijan and Montenegro have discussed expanding investment, trade and air connectivity during high-level talks in Baku, reaffirming cooperation across political, economic and humanitarian fields.

The United Kingdom has imposed financial sanctions on Azerbaijani national Chingiz Aliyev, including an asset freeze, as part of its expanded measures targeting Russia-linked entities.

Opposition politician Gultekin Hajibeyli says she is being held in a Turkish deportation center without a court order, raising questions about due process and bilateral trust.

President Ilham Aliyev met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, discussed bilateral cooperation, and attended the opening of the global Games of the Future 2025 tournament.

A prominent Azerbaijani lawyer has urged authorities to include journalists associated with independent media outlets Meydan TV and Toplum TV in a possible presidential pardon, as parliament discusses a broad amnesty initiative.

Spending on cafés and restaurants in Azerbaijan has risen sharply this year, driven not only by higher foot traffic but also by rising food costs, mounting business expenses and growing concerns over portion sizes and price transparency.