Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev spoke by phone to discuss the latest developments in the agreements that were reached in Sochi on 31 October, involving Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia. The leaders reaffirm their commitment to a sustained tripartite process aimed at improving security along the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia and restoring transport connectivity across the wider South Caucasus region. This exchange underscores the importance both sides place on coordinated steps that support stability and practical cooperation in a volatile area.
According to the Kremlin press service, the call also highlighted that the tripartite meeting included a parallel setup in which the foreign ministers of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia participated in separate discussions to fine-tune the agreements and ensure that the negotiations translate into tangible actions on the ground. These channels of dialogue are presented as complementary: high-level leaders set the political framework, while ministerial teams handle the technical and diplomatic details that keep the process moving forward.
Earlier, it was reported that Putin held individual discussions with Aliyev and with Pashinyan in Sochi. Those bilateral conversations were described as laying the groundwork for broader trilateral collaboration, with each leader reinforcing the importance of maintaining momentum and trust among the parties. The exchanges are depicted as part of an ongoing effort to align interests, address bilateral concerns, and build confidence that the agreed steps will be implemented in a timely manner.
In the recent talks with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Putin stressed that Russian peacekeepers are continuing to fulfill their duties in Nagorno-Karabakh, contributing to a stable environment that enables humanitarian access and normalcy for local residents. He also urged renewed energy for the joint tripartite working group that operates with Armenia, calling for concrete deliverables and quicker responses to emerging needs. The emphasis remained on practical outcomes, with a focus on border security, safe movement of people and goods, and the restoration of essential regional infrastructure.
The discussions reflect a broader pattern of sustained coordination among Moscow, Baku and Yerevan, underscoring a shared understanding that durable peace in the South Caucasus requires consistent diplomatic engagement, transparent verification mechanisms, and a commitment to addressing security concerns on the ground. While the specifics of potential measures continue to be refined, the overarching message conveyed by the leaders is one of continued collaboration, careful monitoring, and a readiness to adapt as the situation evolves in the coming months.