Of all people, Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered to act as a mediator in Azerbaijan – in the conflict with neighboring Armenia. “If we could do something to ensure that a peace agreement (…) is signed, we would be very happy about it,” Putin said in Azerbaijan.
It is his first visit since 2018 (see video above). In line with his offer, the Russian president also plans to report “on the results of the talks” to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. “Russia’s historical involvement in the events in the South Caucasus, including in recent years, undoubtedly makes it necessary for us to get involved where the parties need it,” Putin said.
Azerbaijan: “New situation”
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev said Monday that security in the region depends on his country’s close cooperation with Russia. “The new situation opens up new opportunities to achieve long-term peace in the South Caucasus,” he said.
His forces brought the disputed region, inhabited mainly by ethnic Armenians, under full control in a large-scale offensive in September 2023. As a result, more than 120,000 Armenian residents fled to Armenia.
Russian influence
At the time, the Armenian government was angry that Russian troops stationed in Nagorno-Karabakh did not intervene. Since then, the country has sought close ties with the West, much to Russia’s chagrin. Both Armenia and Azerbaijan were part of the former Soviet Union until 1991, and the Russian government still considers both to be part of its sphere of influence. Azerbaijan is also a major producer of natural gas.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
