Russia-Azerbaijan Tensions Escalate to Unprecedented Level

Abstract

A Russian raid in Ekaterinburg targeting ethnic Azerbaijanis on June 27 resulted in deaths, injuries, and allegations of torture. This ignited a severe diplomatic crisis, with Baku accusing Moscow of ethnic violence and launching a criminal investigation. Russia-Azerbaijan relations have been deteriorating since the crash of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 in December 2024, leading to canceled high-level visits, suspended bilateral commissions and Russian cultural events, and harsh criticism of Russia in Azerbaijani state media. Azerbaijan appears to be leveraging the crisis to push for a more equal relationship with Russia, although a complete break in relations remains unlikely due to strong political and economic ties.