Azerbaijan warns citizens of consequences for joining foreign armed conflicts

Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a warning over increasing global instability, saying ongoing conflicts in regions including Ukraine and the Middle East continue to pose a serious threat to international peace and security.

The ministry said such conflicts have already affected Azerbaijani citizens abroad, noting that “there are cases of Azerbaijani citizens in such areas being killed or suffering various degrees of bodily injuries as a result of armed clashes and military operations,” Caliber.Az quotes the statement. 

It warned that security conditions in and near conflict zones remain extremely dangerous, stressing that “security risks in and near conflict zones are extremely high and pose serious threats to the lives and health of our citizens who travel to or operate in those regions.”

In its statement, the ministry urged citizens to exercise caution before travelling abroad. 

“We once again call on our citizens to carefully assess the security situation before travelling to foreign countries, to take into account the warnings and recommendations of official state bodies, and to avoid travelling to areas where conflicts and military operations are being conducted,” it said.

The ministry also reiterated that participation in foreign conflicts carries legal consequences.

“Any form of participation of citizens in armed conflicts and military operations on the territory of foreign states, whether on a mercenary or voluntary basis, entails criminal liability in accordance with the legislation of Azerbaijan,” it said.

The Foreign Ministry added that diplomatic missions and consulates continue working to protect Azerbaijani citizens abroad and urged individuals to prioritise their personal safety.

“Furthermore, it is of particular importance for every citizen to take a responsible approach to their own safety and to avoid high-risk activities,” the statement said.

The ministry said it is continuing to closely monitor international developments amid rising global tensions.

By Sabina Mammadli