Former Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Tofig Zulfugarov recently published a Facebook post that sparked strong reactions within Russian nationalist circles.
In the post, he pointed out that the oldest city in Russia is Derbent and reminded readers that around 40% of its population consists of ethnic Azerbaijanis. Zulfugarov posed a rhetorical question:
“It’s interesting—when so-called Russian nationalists on the internet call on us to ‘go back to Azerbaijan,’ what do they mean? That the most ancient indigenous population of the Russian Federation should leave their own country?”
The online backlash was swift—and largely predictable. Nationalist commentators responded with criticism, often aggressive and laced with profanity, which, according to the diplomat, only confirmed his point about their ignorance.
Speaking to Minval Politika, Tofig Zulfugarov elaborated on his stance:
“I essentially quoted historical facts, many of which are openly available on Wikipedia and in other academic sources. My words fully align with statements by the head of Dagestan and with the Constitution of the Republic of Dagestan. But as often happens, commentators were upset by reality. Like many nationalists and chauvinists, they are poorly educated and ignorant of history.”
According to him, the propaganda spread by nationalists—who operate with impunity and the silent consent of certain circles—is aimed at portraying Azerbaijanis as alien to Russia. But, the diplomat emphasized, the Azerbaijani ethnic group is indigenous to Russian territory, especially in regions such as Dagestan.
“The only counterargument they can offer is that this ethnic group wasn’t called ‘Azerbaijani’ in ancient times. But that’s meaningless: you can call it whatever you like—it doesn’t change the essence. Historically, Turkic peoples, along with others, have been part of this region. They simply confuse the concepts of ‘nation’ and ‘ethnicity.’ A nation is a category related to economic and political development, whereas nationality is an ethnic concept. People who view nationalists as patriots are usually poorly educated. They should start with the basics—learning their own history.”
Zulfugarov emphasized that he would not stoop to personal insults like his opponents:
“Their level is clearly shown in the comments—swearing, aggression, lack of arguments. I rely on historical sources and act within the framework of Russian and international law.”
He believes that the post has already had an effect—not only sparking discussion but also calling Russian state institutions to action. In his view, these institutions must protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of ethnicity.
“Everything nationalists are doing contradicts the laws of the Russian Federation itself. I operate within the legal framework. And if I have to ‘rub someone’s nose in reality,’ it’s only to restore respect for history, for the law, and for human dignity.”
