Vasif Huseynov’s article has been published by the Jamestown Foundation 

“An article authored by Head of Department Vasif Huseynov, titled “Baku-Moscow Tensions Subdued, but Underlying Distrust Persists,” has been published by the Jamestown Foundation.

The article emphasizes that, despite problems that have emerged in bilateral relations in recent years, Baku has stated that it is not interested in escalating tensions with Moscow and does not intend to sever economic or other ties. Vasif Huseynov notes that Azerbaijan has consistently prioritized relations based on friendship and mutual respect and this approach is generally in line with the country’s policy of strategic balance and non-alignment in the context of great-power competition.

At the same time, the author highlights that Overchuk’s assurances regarding the crash of an AZAL aircraft in Russian airspace, namely that the issue would be resolved in accordance with the commitments made by President Vladimir Putin, including compensation for the victims and their families,were viewed in Baku as a positive signal indicating Moscow’s political will to fulfill its obligations.

In addition, the article argues that Russia’s repeated use of the Karabakh issue in different contexts, especially in its communication with Yerevan, does not benefit either side. This approach suggests that Moscow has not fully accepted the new regional reality that emerged after 2023 and raises doubts about its intentions. According to the author, if Russia truly wants to improve relations, it needs to take a more consistent and sincere approach, avoiding a return to old narratives.

Referring to the Putin-Pashinyan meeting in Moscow, Vasif Huseynov points out that Russia’s ongoing references to the “Karabakh issue” do not match the current peace process or the official positions of Armenia and Azerbaijan. He also notes that Azerbaijan responded quickly and firmly through diplomatic channels, effectively settling the matter.

Overall, the author makes it clear that Azerbaijan now expects concrete actions from Russia to rebuild trust,especially when it comes to accountability and compensation for the plane crash. Symbolic gestures, the article concludes, are no longer enough. From Azerbaijan’s perspective, Russia’s continued references to the Karabakh issue, particularly in the context of Armenian domestic politics, suggest that it has yet to fully accept the new regional reality.