Azerbaijan Expects Russia to Conduct Objective Investigation and Hold Perpetrators Accountable
Baku, The Gulf Observer: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan summoned the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Azerbaijan, Mikhail Yevdokimov, in response to a series of recent developments that have strained relations between the two countries.
During a meeting at the MFA, Deputy Foreign Minister Araz Azimov conveyed Azerbaijan’s strong protest against what were described as unfriendly actions and steps by the Russian side that are detrimental to bilateral ties. He specifically raised serious concerns regarding the incident that occurred on 27 June in Yekaterinburg, during which unlawful actions by Russian law enforcement reportedly led to the deaths of two Azerbaijani citizens and injuries to others.
Deputy Minister Azimov emphasized that the official explanation offered by Russian authorities contradicts both the visible signs of severe violence on the deceased and independent expert assessments. He also criticized the use of terms such as “ethnic criminal group” in Russian media during coverage of the raids, describing such language as unacceptable and indicative of ethnic intolerance.
Azerbaijan reiterated its demand for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the violations committed by Russian law enforcement, urging that those responsible be held accountable. The Deputy Minister underscored that Azerbaijan’s stance on the issue should not be misconstrued as interference in Russia’s internal affairs.
In response to Russia’s expressed concerns regarding actions taken against the “Sputnik-Azerbaijan” office, the Azerbaijani side dismissed the objections as unfounded, noting that all measures were undertaken in accordance with domestic legislation, with investigations still ongoing.
Deputy Minister Azimov further highlighted Azerbaijan’s dissatisfaction with Russia’s lack of accountability in the case of the downing of an Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft in Russian airspace late last year. He criticized ongoing attempts to distort facts surrounding the incident and condemned disinformation campaigns led by certain Russian officials and media outlets. Azerbaijan continues to expect a full and transparent investigation, accountability for those responsible, and appropriate compensation for the victims, considering such steps essential to restoring trust.
The meeting also addressed inflammatory statements and actions by Russian public figures and media in recent months, which were seen as targeting Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, further damaging mutual relations.
Deputy Minister Azimov conveyed that the aforementioned actions contradict the principles of mutual respect and friendship that should guide Azerbaijan-Russia relations. He urged the Russian side to take immediate and constructive measures to ease tensions and help restore a positive environment in bilateral relations.
