Summary
A recent conflict between Russia and Azerbaijan began when Russian special forces conducted a raid on ethnic Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg, resulting in the deaths of two brothers under suspicious circumstances. Azerbaijan formally protested, accusing Russia of unlawful actions, while also launching its own crackdown on organized crime involving Russian nationals. These events indicate a shift in power dynamics, with Azerbaijan taking a firmer stance against Russia and strengthening ties with Turkey.
Key Facts
- Russian special forces raided ethnic Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg on June 27.
- About 50 people were detained, and two Azerbaijani brothers died in custody.
- Autopsies showed the brothers had injuries contradicting claims of death by heart failure.
- Survivors of the raid reported abuse, such as beatings and electrocution.
- Azerbaijan's ambassador to Russia formally protested the incident on July 1.
- Azerbaijan arrested several Russian nationals as part of an organized crime crackdown.
- These events suggest Azerbaijan is distancing itself from Russian influence and aligning more with Turkey.
- The situation highlights a potential shift in regional power dynamics away from Russia’s traditional influence.
