The European Parliament President Roberta Metsola has urged EU policymakers not to treat Azerbaijan as a dependable source for gas, highlighting concerns tied to Baku’s actions in Nagorno-Karabakh. Metsola’s warning, reported by TASS, underscores a broader message about reliability in long-term energy partnerships and the political contexts that accompany gas supply commitments.
Speaking during an informal EU summit held in Spain, Metsola emphasized that Europe cannot transition from one uncertain energy ally to another. Her statement reflects a caution that energy security should be anchored in predictable behavior and verifiable commitments, rather than shifting allegiances that may expose Europe to sudden supply disruptions or diplomatic pressures. The clarity of this stance signals a willingness within the European leadership to reassess relationships that could pose strategic risks to member states, especially as the energy landscape continues to evolve.
Since Russia launched its broader military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, several European governments expanded dialogue with Azerbaijan as part of diversifying their energy supplies. The EU aimed to weaken dependence on Russian gas while exploring alternative routes and suppliers. In this climate, Baku has been viewed by some European capitals as a potential partner to help fill energy gaps, even as questions about governance, regional security, and human rights accompany such considerations.
On September 19, Azerbaijan announced the start of a localized anti-terrorist operation in Nagorno-Karabakh. The government described the mission as a bid to curb large-scale provocations and to disarm Armenian forces in the area, a move that drew immediate attention from European officials and international observers. By the following day, a ceasefire agreement involving the Russian peacekeeping mission had been reached, with commitments to disband Karabakh’s armed formations and withdraw heavy equipment, under ongoing monitoring by Russian personnel. This sequence of events has been a focal point for discussions about regional stability, humanitarian needs, and the implications for energy diplomacy in Europe.
The operations in Nagorno-Karabakh triggered protests within Armenia and led to significant displacement, with tens of thousands of people seeking refuge within the republic amid the unrest. The developments have prompted debates within the European Union about sanctions, human rights considerations, and the broader consequences of regional conflicts on energy markets and security policy. The conversation continues to weigh how engagement with Azerbaijan might influence both regional stability and Europe’s strategic energy posture, alongside the ethical and political dimensions that accompany such partnerships.
Earlier, the EU conducted a review of its relations with Azerbaijan over the Karabakh issue, reflecting the delicate balance between pursuing diversification of energy sources and upholding regional norms and international law. The outcome of that review shapes how EU member states approach future dealings with Baku, informing judgments about reliability, accountability, and long-term cooperation in a volatile neighborhood. The ongoing dialogue underscores the importance of transparent governance, consistent behavior in conflict zones, and the alignment of energy interests with broader European values and security considerations.