Erdoğan: Türkiye closely monitoring tensions between Azerbaijan, Russia

Türkiye is closely monitoring the growing tension between Azerbaijan and Russia and has called on both sides to exercise restraint, according to a statement by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Erdoğan made the remarks to journalists aboard the presidential plane following his visit to Azerbaijan. He noted that he had discussed the matter directly with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Caliber.Az esports via TRT Haber.

The Turkish leader emphasised that Türkiye maintains strong diplomatic and strategic relations with both Azerbaijan and Russia. He stated that Ankara is closely following the developments and encourages both nations to avoid actions that could escalate the situation further.

Erdoğan expressed Türkiye’s belief that the issue could be resolved more easily through diplomatic communication aimed at easing tensions. He voiced hope that the recent negative developments would be short-lived and would not lead to lasting damage in Azerbaijan-Russia relations.

On June 27, 2025, Russian law enforcement authorities carried out a large-scale raid in Yekaterinburg targeting a group that included Azerbaijani nationals. During the operation, at least 14 people were detained—12 of whom were of Azerbaijani origin. Reports indicate that physical force and torture were used against some of the detainees. Tragically, two Azerbaijani brothers, the Safarovs, died as a result of violent treatment during the raid.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage in Azerbaijan, with the public and officials alike demanding a full investigation and justice. Azerbaijani authorities have launched a criminal case and are pressing for accountability from their Russian counterparts.

By Sabina Mammadli