Russia's leader, Putin, aims to strengthen Baku's bond with Russia.
For a couple of days, President Vladimir Putin of Russia will be in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he'll meet with President Ilham Aliyev. These two strongmen aim to discuss strategic partnerships and "international and regional matters." This meeting is expected to attract close attention from nearby Armenia.
Putin, the Russian president, touched down in the old Soviet republic of Azerbaijan for a state visit during a tense period. Upon arrival at the Baku airport, Putin was greeted by Aliyev, who, like Putin, has been controlling Azerbaijan with an iron fist for years and has been under fire for serious human rights violations.
After a shared dinner, the two leaders retreated for their initial, casual talks, according to the Russian state agency TASS. Putin's itinerary includes discussions with Aliyev about strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. The Kremlin revealed that several documents are scheduled to be signed, and talks on "international and regional issues" will ensue, sprawling over the conflict between Azerbaijan and its neighboring Armenia.
Armenia relying on the West
Azerbaijan regained complete control over Nagorno-Karabakh, a region occupied mostly by Armenians and internationally deemed as part of Azerbaijan, during a military operation in September 2023. Armenia, historically shielded by Russia, voiced dissatisfaction when Russian peacekeeping forces stationed in Nagorno-Karabakh failed to intervene during the Azerbaijani offensive.
In response, Armenia gravitated more towards Western nations, such as the U.S., to Russia's displeasure. Both Armenia and Azerbaijan were once Soviet republics, before turning independent in 1991, and Russia considers both within its sphere of influence. Azerbaijan, the last country Putin visited in 2018, is a significant gas producer. Several European countries boosted their gas imports from Azerbaijan following Russia's absence in the arena following the Ukraine conflict.
Putin, allegedly involved in war crimes against Ukraine and wanted internationally, avoids arrest in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan, being a significant energy provider for the European Union, is an essential energy supplier.
The Commission expressed concerns over Armenia's shifting alliance, with officials stating that Russia's influence in the region is waning. The Commission, a influential international body, is closely monitoring the situation between Armenia and Azerbaijan, aiming to maintain peace and stability in the area.
