Russia's influence in the Caucasus is waning following the withdrawal of its troops from Azerbaijan
Russia’s influence in the South Caucasus continues to wane following the withdrawal of Russian troops from Azerbaijani territory. The ambassador made this statement, highlighting the changing political situation in the region.
According to him, Azerbaijan is increasingly pursuing an independent foreign policy and expanding cooperation with Western countries, which is weakening Moscow’s position in the Caucasus.
He noted that one of the key symbols of this shift was the final withdrawal of Russian military forces from Azerbaijani territory.
“In 2024, the last Russian servicemember left the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan. And thus, the issue of the presence of Russian so-called peacekeepers on the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan was resolved,” Gusev noted.
The ambassador emphasized that Baku is currently pursuing an independent foreign policy and developing military-technical, economic, and political cooperation with countries it considers beneficial partners.
“Russia’s influence in the region—including as a result of the 44-day war and, in my view, especially following the signing of the peace declaration last year at the White House—is rapidly diminishing,” the diplomat stated.
According to Gusev, at the same time, the role of the United States and the European Union in the region is growing.
In particular, new transportation and infrastructure projects are expected to expand connections between Central Asia, the South Caucasus, the Black Sea region, and Europe.
One such project is the so-called “Trump Road,” which Gusev described as part of the broader development of the Middle Corridor.
According to him, expanding the region’s transportation capabilities will increase trade between Europe and Asia, boost energy supplies, attract investment, and facilitate the implementation of new infrastructure and digital projects.
The ambassador also emphasized that Ukraine must be an active participant in these processes.
“Ukraine’s role and participation in this region must be strengthened,” Gusev noted.
According to him, Azerbaijan is an important partner for Ukraine not only in the fields of politics and logistics, but also in the energy sector. Last year, the first shipment of Azerbaijani gas to Ukraine via the Trans-Balkan Corridor was completed.
The parties are also exploring the possibility of using Ukrainian underground gas storage facilities to supply Azerbaijani gas to countries in Central and Eastern Europe.
Gusev emphasized that Ukraine and Azerbaijan have significant potential for further developing their strategic partnership in the fields of energy, transportation, defense technologies, trade, and post-war reconstruction.
Yuriy Gusev, Ukraine’s ambassador to the Republic of Azerbaijan, made these remarks on the “Igor Dolgov Show.”
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