Azerbaijan's President Aliyev Accuses Russia of Historical Occupation

In a significant escalation of rhetoric, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has publicly accused Russia of invading and occupying Azerbaijan in 1920, a claim he articulated during an interview with Al Arabiya on August 26, 2023. This statement marks a pivotal moment in Azerbaijani-Russian relations, as it challenges Moscow's historical narrative regarding the Soviet Union's expansion. Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan had established its own state, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, following the collapse of the Russian Empire in 1917, only to be seized by Bolshevik forces in April 1920.

United24 MediaAzerbaijani president says Russia ‘invaded and occupied’ the country as it incorporated it into Soviet Union — Novaya Gazeta EuropeIlham Aliyev accused Russia of occupying Azerbaijan in 1920President Aliyev on Soviet Occupation: How Azerbaijan Was Divided and Relations with Russia TodayEurasianet

Aliyev's remarks come amid heightened tensions between Azerbaijan and Russia, particularly following the downing of an Azerbaijani Airlines passenger plane near Aktau, Kazakhstan, which resulted in 38 fatalities. While Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed condolences, he did not acknowledge Russian air defenses' role in the incident. Aliyev expressed "huge disappointment" with Russia's handling of the situation, suggesting that the lack of warning signals during the flight's approach indicated a politically charged act rather than an accident.

ANALYSIS: Analysis: Why Azerbaijan’s Aliyev Is Now Criticizing MoscowAzerbaijani president says Russia ‘invaded and occupied’ the country as it incorporated it into Soviet Union — Novaya Gazeta EuropeUnited24 MediaEurasianet

Additionally, Aliyev condemned recent police actions in Russia that led to the deaths of two Azerbaijani citizens, labeling these incidents as "unprecedented acts" against his people. He criticized the Russian authorities for their inadequate responses and for misleading investigations into these deaths.

ANALYSIS: Analysis: Why Azerbaijan’s Aliyev Is Now Criticizing Moscow

Aliyev's framing of the 1920 occupation serves as a political message, aligning Azerbaijan's historical grievances with contemporary issues, such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine. By positioning Azerbaijan alongside Ukraine and the Baltic states, Aliyev seeks to reinforce a narrative of resistance against Russian imperialism. This rhetoric not only aims to bolster national pride domestically but also signals to Moscow that Azerbaijan will not tolerate disrespect or aggression.

ANALYSIS: Analysis: Why Azerbaijan’s Aliyev Is Now Criticizing MoscowUnited24 MediaIlham Aliyev accused Russia of occupying Azerbaijan in 1920Azerbaijani president says Russia ‘invaded and occupied’ the country as it incorporated it into Soviet Union — Novaya Gazeta Europe

Historian Rizvan Huseynov noted that acknowledging the historical occupation is crucial for Azerbaijan, especially in light of Russia's current revanchist rhetoric. He emphasized that understanding this history is vital for shaping Azerbaijan's foreign policy in a region where Russian influence remains significant.

“In 1920, our independence was drowned in blood” – Aze.Media

In his interview, Aliyev stated, “We established our own state, but the Bolsheviks took it from us,” reiterating that Azerbaijan is not responsible for the deterioration of relations with Russia. He asserted that Azerbaijan will respond constructively but will not accept any form of aggression. The Kremlin's response has been dismissive, with Russian officials labeling Aliyev's comments as an "attack" on Russia and suggesting that Azerbaijan should be grateful for its historical ties to the Soviet Union.

United24 MediaEurasianetAzerbaijani president says Russia ‘invaded and occupied’ the country as it incorporated it into Soviet Union — Novaya Gazeta EuropeIlham Aliyev accused Russia of occupying Azerbaijan in 1920ANALYSIS: Analysis: Why Azerbaijan’s Aliyev Is Now Criticizing Moscow

Aliyev's statements indicate a recalibration of Azerbaijan's foreign policy, moving away from a historically deferential stance towards Russia to one of cautious resistance. This shift could herald a new chapter in Azerbaijani-Russian relations, characterized by increased friction and a stronger alignment with the broader narrative of resisting Russian aggression. As Azerbaijan continues to navigate its complex geopolitical landscape, the implications of Aliyev's rhetoric will likely resonate beyond the South Caucasus, influencing regional dynamics and international perceptions of Russian actions.

ANALYSIS: Analysis: Why Azerbaijan’s Aliyev Is Now Criticizing MoscowUnited24 MediaEurasianetIlham Aliyev accused Russia of occupying Azerbaijan in 1920