Russian Lawmaker Threatens Azerbaijan with Import Ban and "Special Military Operation" Over Ukraine Aid

Baku, Azerbaijan – A Russian State Duma member has reportedly threatened Azerbaijan with an import ban and a "Special Military Operation" in response to Baku's decision to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The threat, attributed to State Duma Deputy Nikolai Valuev, underscores escalating tensions between Moscow and Baku amidst Azerbaijan's deepening ties with Western nations and its support for Ukrainian sovereignty.

According to a tweet from Visegrád 24, Valuev's remarks came as a direct reaction to Azerbaijan's provision of assistance to Ukraine. The tweet stated, > "A Russian State Duma member threatened Azerbaijan with an import ban and the launch of a so-called 'Special Military Operation' in response to Azerbaijan's decision to send humanitarian aid to Ukraine."

This aggressive rhetoric follows Azerbaijan's recent decision to ban Valuev from entering the country, citing "offensive statements" he made against Azerbaijan and its people. Valuev's comments, made after Azerbaijan ordered the closure of the "Russia House" cultural center in Baku due to a lack of legal registration, included accusations about the Azerbaijani diaspora in Russia engaging in criminal activities.

Relations between Russia and Azerbaijan have become increasingly strained. Beyond the diplomatic spat involving Valuev, tensions have been exacerbated by Azerbaijan's growing alignment with Western countries and its humanitarian support for Ukraine, a stance that contrasts with Moscow's ongoing conflict. An incident involving the downing of an Azerbaijani Airlines flight by Russian forces in December 2024 further complicated bilateral ties, with Baku seeking accountability from Moscow.

Azerbaijan has consistently affirmed its support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and has provided humanitarian assistance, while carefully navigating its relationship with Russia, a powerful neighbor with significant regional influence. The latest threat from a Russian parliamentarian highlights Moscow's displeasure with Baku's independent foreign policy choices, particularly those perceived as supportive of Ukraine.