US lawmakers commemorate January 20 tragedy, praise Azerbaijan’s strength and perseverance

On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the January 20 tragedy, US Congressmen Steve Cohen, a member of the Democratic Party representing the state of Tennessee in the House of Representatives, and Robert Aderholt, a member of the Republican Party representing the state of Alabama, co-chairs of the Congressional Azerbaijan Working Group, have issued a joint statement reflecting on the tragic events that shaped Azerbaijan’s history.

In their statement, the congressmen emphasised that January 20, 1990, stands as one of the most tragic moments in the history of Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

On the night of January 19-20, 1990, Soviet troops invaded Baku, targeting civilians in an unprovoked and brutal assault. The violence left around 150 people dead and approximately 800 others injured. Despite the overwhelming loss and suffering, Cohen and Aderholt noted that the Azerbaijani people refused to surrender. They continued their peaceful protests, and this determined stand ultimately played a significant role in Azerbaijan's path to independence from the Soviet Union on October 18, 1991.

The statement by Cohen and Aderholt pays tribute to the victims of this tragic event, acknowledging the pain felt by the families of those who lost their lives. They expressed their deepest condolences to the grieving families and reaffirmed the United States' continued support for Azerbaijan’s right to freedom, independence, and self-determination.

By Tamilla Hasanova