In an interview with Al Arabiya, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev drew a parallel between the current conflict in Ukraine and the annexation of Azerbaijan by the Soviet Union in 1920, calling both events a “Russian invasion and occupation.”

Aliyev emphasized that Azerbaijan has supported the territorial integrity of Ukraine from the very beginning. He also mentioned the division of Azerbaijani territory after joining the USSR and accused the Bolsheviks of deceiving and taking away the independence of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. In addition, the president noted that Azerbaijan provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine and is ready to consider the issue of arms supplies.

In conclusion, he outlined the deterioration of relations with Russia, placing responsibility on the Russian side, and stressed that Azerbaijan will not tolerate disrespect.