The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Maria Zakharova, noted that during a meeting at the United Nations, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Ceyhun Bayramov opened discussions with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov by offering an apology for the incidents involving Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh. The moment underscored the delicate interplay of diplomacy and on-the-ground risk in the disputed region, where each side seeks to protect its personnel while pursuing a broader political track. This acknowledgment set a cautious tone for the talks, signaling a shared intent to address the fallout and to prevent further harm to peacekeeping efforts in the area.
A photograph circulating from the meeting captured two ministers in a formal exchange, reflecting the gravity of the moment and the ongoing engagement between Moscow and Baku at high levels. The public display of contrition appeared aimed at signaling a willingness to move beyond blame and focus on accountability and de-escalation, a theme repeatedly emphasized by officials from both capitals as discussions continued behind closed doors. This moment was analyzed by observers as part of a broader effort to stabilize a volatile corridor near Karabakh and to preserve the functioning of peacekeeping operations in challenging terrain and weather conditions.
In a subsequent development, the Azerbaijan Prosecutor General’s Office announced the initiation of criminal proceedings related to the deaths of Russian service members in Karabakh. The ministry acknowledged the casualties among the Russian peacekeeping contingent who were reportedly targeted by shelling, which Azerbaijani authorities described as attacks by what they termed illegal Armenian armed formations. The explanation offered pointed to difficult topography and weather—fog and rain—that complicated surveillance and response times in the affected zone. The announcement prompted a careful review of incident timelines, command responsibility, and the rules governing engagement for international peacekeepers deployed in a highly contested area. [Attribution: Azerbaijani Prosecutor General’s Office and ministry statements]
Separately, it was reported that a KAMAZ truck belonging to RMK, operating in the same residential quarter, came under fire from unidentified assailants, resulting in the death of another Russian soldier. Officials described the incident as part of a broader pattern of unsafe conditions and sporadic hostilities affecting peacekeeping and civilian movements in the area. The evolving narrative raised questions about security protocols, safe corridors for humanitarian assistance, and the cadence of rescue operations under ongoing bombardment risk. Analysts suggested that the event would be a focal point for subsequent investigations and for any policy decisions related to the status of peacekeeping missions in Nagorno-Karabakh. [Attribution: regional security observers and official statements]
remarks from Azerbaijani leadership also drew international attention. President Ilham Aliyev publicly expressed apologies for the incidents affecting the Russian side, while promising a comprehensive investigation and accountability for those found responsible. The pledge to conduct a thorough inquiry was viewed as a step intended to restore trust with Moscow and to reassure the peacekeeping framework that operators there can work with clear guidelines and predictable consequences. The posture from Baku reflected a balancing act: addressing immediate losses while maintaining a stance that prioritizes territorial integrity and security in a volatile region. [Attribution: official remarks and state communications]
On the diplomatic front, discussions in European forums have previously touched on the potential sanctioning of Azerbaijan in response to the Karabakh events, signaling that the situation remains a live issue within international deliberations. These conversations illustrate how regional crises can intersect with broader geopolitical considerations, including economic measures and political accountability. The combination of bilateral engagement at the UN and continuing European deliberations suggests a multi-track approach aimed at stabilizing Nagorno-Karabakh while keeping channels open for negotiations and confidence-building measures. Analysts note that real progress will likely hinge on verifiable commitments from all sides, transparent investigations, and concrete steps to reduce the risk to peacekeeping teams and civilians in affected zones. [Attribution: European Parliament discussions and related briefings]