An Azerbaijani opposition figure noted the US's double standards toward dictators
The daughter of Azerbaijani opposition figure and political prisoner Tofig Yagublu published a statement written by her father, in which he commented on the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Yagublu called Maduro's abduction by US authorities a positive step toward removing an illegitimate, corrupt, and anti-democratic leader, but noted that this raises serious legal questions.
In his statement, Yagublu expressed the opinion that the US government should demonstrate the same firmness and integrity within the framework of international law toward other illegitimate and repressive leaders, rather than being soft on some dictators while simultaneously arresting others.
The opposition figure also drew parallels between the situations in Iran and Azerbaijan, recalling Donald Trump's promise to support Iranian protesters. He noted that freedom of assembly exists in Iran, while it is virtually nonexistent in Azerbaijan, and accused Trump of double standards.
In March 2025, a Baku court sentenced Tofig Yagublu to nine years in prison. The defendant cited a lack of evidence and falsified criminal proceedings. Yagublu is known for criticizing the Azerbaijani authorities. In late 2023, he was arrested on charges of fraud and document forgery. Prior to this, the politician had been repeatedly prosecuted criminally and administratively. International organizations have recognized him as a prisoner of conscience.
