Zelenskyy discusses with Aliyev Russia’s mistreatment of Azerbaijanis
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (president.gov.ua)
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev held a phone conversation. One of the topics discussed was the crackdown by Russian security forces on Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg, according to the head of the Ukrainian state’s Telegram channel.
According to Zelenskyy, he thanked his Azerbaijani counterpart for supporting Ukraine, Ukrainians, and the country’s territorial integrity.
"I also expressed clear support from Ukraine in the situation where Russia is abusing Azerbaijani citizens and threatening the Republic of Azerbaijan," the president emphasized.
He expressed condolences to Azerbaijan regarding the murder of the Safarov brothers on Russian territory.
"I am confident that all facts will be clarified. Justice is needed," Zelenskyy added.
The president noted that he and Aliyev share the same view: the life and honor of every person must be protected.
The leaders also discussed bilateral relations between the countries — energy and humanitarian cooperation. They agreed to hold a meeting of the joint intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation.
Crackdown in Yekaterinburg
On June 27, law enforcement in Yekaterinburg conducted a large-scale raid on the apartments of the Azerbaijani diaspora: more than 50 people were detained, including members of the Safarov family.
Two Safarov brothers died during the detention — one allegedly from a heart attack, the other suffered traumatic brain injuries, which is confirmed by an Azerbaijani forensic examination.
Several people with multiple injuries were taken to hospitals.
Against this background, relations between Russia and Azerbaijan have deteriorated. In particular, Baku canceled a visit by a parliamentary delegation from Russia.
