Russian Community of Azerbaijan slams FSB brutality in Yekaterinburg, urges justice for victims

The Russian Community of Azerbaijan has issued a strong condemnation of the violent actions by Russian security forces in Yekaterinburg, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals and caused injuries to several others of Azerbaijani origin.

In a statement, the community expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and voiced serious concern about the incident that occurred on June 27. The victims included both Azerbaijani and Russian citizens of Azerbaijani descent, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

The statement underscored the community’s firm rejection of any unlawful and disproportionate use of force by law enforcement officials, especially when it leads to loss of life. “Fighting crime is an important task, but it must be conducted within the framework of the law, respecting the rights and dignity of every individual,” the community said. It emphasised that the use of force resulting in human casualties is unacceptable in a lawful state.

Highlighting the broader implications of the incident, the Russian Community of Azerbaijan warned that the reckless actions of certain authorities risk damaging the friendly and allied relations between Russia and Azerbaijan.

The statement also condemned any form of ethnic stigmatisation under the guise of combating crime, warning against the dangerous precedent of labelling “ethnic crime,” which undermines equality and interethnic trust.

“In Azerbaijan, such cruel treatment of people is unthinkable. Respect for Russian culture and language is maintained at all levels of society, with Russian schools, theaters, and cultural centers actively operating,” the statement noted.

The community also referenced other recent tragic events involving Azerbaijanis, including the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 passenger plane in Aktau, Kazakhstan, which claimed Azerbaijani lives. It criticised the lack of apologies or clear explanations from Russian authorities regarding that incident, interpreting the silence as disregard for human life and dignity.

In conclusion, the Russian Community of Azerbaijan called for an objective and transparent investigation into the Yekaterinburg events. It stressed that openness, justice, and respect for human life are essential to overcoming the crisis and strengthening the bonds between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Russia.

By Khagan Isayev