Russian President Vladimir Putin expresses his desire to intervene in the dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Vladimir Putin mentioned after his meeting that he'd share with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia the outcome of the discussions. Putin emphasized that Russia's involvement in South Caucasus affairs, including recent events, necessitates intervention in areas where it's required.
Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan's President, shared his thoughts on Monday, stating that the region's security relies on tight collaboration between his country and Russia. Aliyev viewed the recent developments as opening up possibilities for long-term tranquility in the South Caucasus, referring to Azerbaijan's seizure of Nagorno-Karabakh in September the previous year, an area previously controlled by Armenian separatists for three decades.
Azerbaijan regained control of the contentious region, predominantly populated by ethnic Armenians and legally belonging to Azerbaijan, through a massive military campaign in September 2023. Over 120,000 Armenian residents fled to Armenia following this offensive, with Armenia accusing Azerbaijan of ethnic cleansing. Furthermore, Azerbaijan has laid claim to portions of Armenian territory.
Armenia has also expressed disappointment that Russian peacekeeping forces stationed in Nagorno-Karabakh did not intervene during the Azerbaijani assault. Subsequently, the country has worked to strengthen its ties with the West, including the US - a move displeasing to Russia. Both Armenia and Azerbaijan were former Soviet republics until 1991, and Russia still views both as being within its influence sphere.
Azerbaijan is a significant contributor to the global natural gas market. In the context of the Ukraine conflict and Europe's shift away from Russian energy imports, these resources have gained even more importance. Additionally, the UN climate conference COP29 will take place in Azerbaijan in November.
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The neighbouring country to Nagorno-Karabakh, which was seized by Azerbaijan, is Armenia, where over 120,000 Armenian residents fled due to the offensive. Russia, being a neighbouring country as well, has expressed displeasure with Armenia's move to strengthen ties with the West, including the US.
