Azerbaijan issues strong protest to Russia over lawmaker's comments

Azerbaijan has summoned Russia’s ambassador in Baku and issued a formal protest note over remarks by Russian lawmaker Konstantin Zatulin, escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

Mikhail Yevdokimov, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Russia to Azerbaijan, was called to the Foreign Ministry, where officials delivered a protest note and voiced strong objections to Zatulin’s latest comments.

The statement he made on 5 February, concerning the conviction of Armenian citizens in Azerbaijan, triggered sharp criticism in Baku for what officials said were attempts to interfere in judicial matters.

During the meeting, Azerbaijani diplomats condemned Zatulin’s long record of opposing Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

They pointed to his open support for separatist narratives and argued that his remarks sought to distort court rulings related to Armenian citizens convicted of crimes against peace and humanity, as well as war crimes committed during periods of Armenian military aggression against Azerbaijan.

Officials said his use of what they described as unacceptable expressions added to the gravity of the issue.

The ministry urged the Russian side to take steps to halt the activities of figures who, in Azerbaijan’s view, undermine regional stability and strain bilateral relations.

Moscow was asked to ensure that actions by individuals such as Zatulin do not obstruct the pursuit of lasting peace or the broader framework of dialogue between the two countries.

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