Kyrgyzstan declines response to Kremlin-aligned TV host’s military threats

Kyrgyzstan’s presidential press secretary, Askat Alagozov, said Bishkek would not respond to Russian TV host Vladimir Solovyov’s January 11 remarks claiming Central Asia as “ours” and hinting at a possible military operation.

Alagozov stated that such statements do not warrant an official response at the state level, describing them as “empty and unserious,” typical of lengthy television broadcasts, Uzbek media reports.

He added that the situation would be different if the remarks had come from Russian officials rather than a media personality.

Regarding a proposal from Kyrgyz parliamentarian Dastan Bekeshev to declare Solovyov persona non grata, Alagozov said the suggestion could be considered, though no decision has been taken.

The press secretary stressed that relations between Kyrgyzstan and Russia, as well as between Russia and Central Asian states more broadly, remain strong. He highlighted active reciprocal visits and cooperation within the frameworks of the CIS, the Eurasian Economic Union, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. According to Alagozov, Solovyov’s remarks have no factual basis and do not reflect Russia’s official position.

At the same time, he acknowledged that as a state television figure, Solovyov’s provocative statements can cause concern in friendly countries and, in some cases, may warrant a firm response. He added that the Kyrgyz authorities expect appropriate measures from the channel’s management.

Meanwhile, Kazakh MP Aidos Sarym said any response should be proportionate to the source of the comments. He suggested that issuing diplomatic notes for every statement by the presenter would be excessive, while not ruling out a possible entry ban for Solovyov in Kazakhstan.

In Uzbekistan, Alisher Kadyrov, leader of the Milliy Tiklanish party, urged a calm approach. He said rhetoric in Russian media concerning potential military action in Central Asia contradicts the spirit of strategic partnership and undermines its foundations. He emphasised that regional states are united and capable of responding firmly to any aggressive moves.

By Aghakazim Guliyev