Several key aspects stand out. First among them are the remarks about the “United States of America as the sole global power.” For four years now, relations between official Baku and the Biden administration have been tense, a situation attributed to the declining leadership in the U.S. The President provided an excellent commentary on this dynamic, referring to the Biden era as the “Soros regime.” He remarked, “This was the Soros regime, both during Biden’s tenure and in the eight years leading up to Trump’s presidency. For this reason, our relations saw no progress.”
Regarding the Trump administration, Aliyev hinted at the potential for improved relations: “I believe that if both sides are interested, we can elevate Azerbaijan-U.S. relations to a strategic level.”
Azerbaijan does not hide that it is on the verge of choosing a global ally. There are undoubtedly positive signals and warm messages coming from Washington. While the President refrained from delving into details, he shared crucial information with both domestic and international audiences, clarifying Azerbaijan’s position.
At a time when relations with Iran, Russia, and the European Union are tense, announcing this could provoke Moscow and Tehran, neighbors ready to act against Azerbaijan. These two countries already exert pressure on Azerbaijan. Over the past 15 days, notable incidents have occurred: a civilian aircraft was downed over Russian territory, causing innocent casualties, and Russia failed to respond as expected, offering only excuses to evade responsibility. The cancellation of the Baku-Kazan flight following another aviation risk is telling.
Iran’s hostile rhetoric towards Azerbaijan is constant. The latest controversy deepened rifts when insulting remarks were made about Azerbaijan, Turkey, and their leaders at an event attended by Hasan Amuli, a representative of Khamenei in Ardabil Province. President Aliyev addressed this in his interview, emphasizing that such provocations stem from Tehran’s officials and institutions, not merely local clergy.
As Azerbaijan grows stronger, it faces resistance from countries like Iran and Russia, whose antagonism is rooted in historical grievances over territorial losses. The liberation of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur rattled these imperialist powers. Despite three decades of support for Armenia, justice ultimately prevailed, and Azerbaijan restored its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This triumph fuels fears that Azerbaijan may one day claim its other historical lands.
Another source of tension is the emerging Turkish unity through Azerbaijan, which strengthens its regional and global influence. While Russia and Iran isolate themselves with misguided policies, Azerbaijan attracts more allies and positions itself as a key geopolitical player. This small state is transforming into a global actor, challenging the centuries-old dominance of Russian and Persian chauvinism.
Unlike Russia and Iran, France and European institutions also harbor biases against Azerbaijan, though their reach is limited by geography. Nevertheless, they arm Armenia and attempt to destabilize the South Caucasus, creating new conflicts.
Global and regional dynamics are rapidly changing: the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria, Biden’s potential departure in the U.S., Trump’s possible return, and Russia’s weakening in Ukraine are all factors that bolster Azerbaijan’s position. President Aliyev is navigating these shifts deftly, making calculated moves to neutralize emerging threats. By reassessing relations with the U.S., he signaled alignment with values that resonate with Azerbaijani society.
Aliyev maintains robust relations not only with the U.S. but also with Israel, Turkey, Pakistan, and China, showcasing his ability to harmonize the interests of conflicting global powers within Azerbaijan.
However, the President’s greatest ally is the Azerbaijani people. He proudly acknowledged this in the interview. The public’s unwavering support during the Second Karabakh War demonstrated the nation’s unity in times of external threats, rallying behind their leader with cries of “Commander-in-Chief, arm us!”
While governance is grounded in realities rather than emotions, public support is an irreplaceable geopolitical asset. A leader trusted by their people garners respect internationally, while a leader without domestic backing cannot defeat adversaries, dismantle occupying armies, or confront overbearing neighbors.
Currently, attention is focused on the black boxes of the plane that crashed in Aktau. President Aliyev, however, has already decoded the “black boxes” of threats against Azerbaijan, outlining clear paths forward and sharing his vision for the future with the nation and the world.
Azer Aykhan
Translated from globalinfo.az
