Latest news in Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, summary. Live

● The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly adopted the “Portuguese Declaration” along with several resolutions, including the “Resolution on Supporting Democracy and OSCE Values in Georgia.” The document expresses concern over irregularities observed during the October 2024 parliamentary elections. It also highlights the anti-Western rhetoric and actions of the “Georgian Dream” government and calls for new elections and the immediate release of political prisoners.

● Georgia supported the “Portuguese Declaration.” “Georgian Dream” MP Nikoloz Samkharadze wrote on social media that, at his initiative, the declaration included a call for the Syrian government to revoke its recognition of the “independence” of Georgia’s Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, as well as Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and to recognize the territorial integrity of both Georgia and Ukraine.

● The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) expressed concern over the controversial foreign agents registration law (FARA), warning that it could seriously restrict the work of civil society in the country “and all those working to protect human rights.” The law was adopted as a copy of the U.S. law. However, ODIHR warned that legislation should not be transferred from one country to another without a thorough analysis of the national institutional and legal context. More here.

● “Georgian Dream” Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated: “Now-former U.S. Ambassador Robin Dunnigan essentially represented the previous U.S. administration. The deterioration of our relations was caused by that administration’s hostility toward Georgian democracy. Vice President Vance is criticizing exactly that European bureaucracy which opposed Georgia’s democratic system and which organized four revolutions in our country.” Kobakhidze’s comment followed a statement by the U.S. ambassador to Georgia, who said to the “Georgian Dream”: “You cannot earn a democratic mandate by silencing or jailing your opponents.” She quoted J.D. Vance in making this statement.

● Former finance minister Ivane Machavariani has been summoned by the prosecutor’s office for questioning in a case related to the installation of a Georgian checkpoint near the village of Chorchana in the Georgia–South Ossetia conflict zone. Several former officials have already been questioned in the case, including ex-interior minister Vakhtang Gomelauri, former regional development minister Maia Tskitishvili, former deputy head of the State Security Service Aleksandre Tabatadze, former government administration head Kakhaber Kakhishvili, and former Shida Kartli governor Giorgi Khojevanishvili.

The case relates to the order given in August 2019 by then-interior minister Giorgi Gakharia (now an opposition leader) to set up a Georgian police checkpoint near Chorchana. Following this, Russian occupation forces entered that section of Georgian territory. The prosecution is investigating the episode under charges of:

▪️ Attempted sabotage under aggravating circumstances;
▪️ Hostile activity under the guidance of a foreign organization;
▪️ Mobilization of resources for actions against the constitutional order and core national security interests of Georgia.

The opposition claims the investigation is an attempt to politically persecute Gakharia.

● Denmark supports targeted sanctions against the “Georgian Dream” government “for impunity for police violence, systematic persecution of civil society and independent media, repressive laws, violations of fundamental rights, and arrests of opposition leaders and others ahead of local elections.” A Danish foreign ministry representative stated in an interview with Formula TV: “Denmark has repeatedly expressed serious concern about the continued deterioration of the human rights situation in Georgia. Because of the Georgian authorities’ actions, the country’s EU accession process has effectively been on hold since June 2024. Recent repressive measures only push Georgia further away from the European norms, values, and commitments it assumed as an EU candidate.”

● Activist Giorgi Mindadze was sentenced to five years in prison. He was arrested during ongoing pro-European protests, which have continued for nearly seven months. He was charged with assaulting a police officer by launching a firework near parliament, which allegedly caused a State Security Service inspector to suffer a leg burn.

● Activist Magda Mamukashvili had her apartment and bank accounts frozen over nonpayment of a 4,000 lari (about \$1,800) fine. The fine was issued for “insulting Georgian Dream MP Mariam Lashkhi.”

Photo David Pipia / JAMnews

● The United Kingdom supports Azerbaijan’s demand for justice in the case involving the killing and beating of Azerbaijanis in Russia. This was stated on X by Ambassador Fergus Auld.

● The Russian consul in Azerbaijan visited the detained Russian citizens and spoke with them for three hours. According to local media, they are accused of cybercrimes and involvement in drug trafficking. Two editors of the Baku branch of the Russian state media corporation Sputnik have also been arrested. The arrests followed an incident in Russia where special forces killed two Azerbaijanis and injured several others during a detention operation. A criminal case has been opened in Baku regarding the incident. More details here.

● The 17th summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization of Central Asia and the Middle East is taking place in Khankendi, Karabakh (photo below). Attending are the presidents of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, as well as the prime minister of Pakistan.

● Amy Kerlon has been appointed the new chargé d’affaires of the United States in Azerbaijan. She will arrive in Baku this week.

● AbzasMedia staff members sentenced to 7–9 years in prison have declared a hunger strike – chief editor Sevinc Vagifgizi (Abbasova), and journalists Elnara Gasimova and Nargiz Absalamova. Their families reported that they are striking in solidarity with AbzasMedia director Ulvi, who has been on hunger strike for several days. The journalists claim Hasanli was unlawfully transferred from a Baku pretrial detention center to Umbaki prison before his sentence came into force and are demanding his return. “As soon as they began their hunger strike, they were placed in solitary confinement and had their belongings forcibly taken,” their relatives said.

On July 1, lawyer Zibeyda Sadigova said after meeting Ulvi Hasanli that he had been subjected to violence. His weight dropped from 77 to 71 kilograms due to the hunger strike. The defense team has appealed to the penitentiary service and the ombudsman’s office, but has not received a response. More on the AbzasMedia case here.

● Eleven residents of the Imishli district were sentenced to 1 to 4 years in prison for taking part in a violent protest following a tragedy in January, when three schoolchildren were killed by a patrol car. The 17-year-old driver of another car, who suddenly blocked the police vehicle’s path, was found responsible for the accident. His sentence has not yet been announced. There is no official information on whether the patrol officer has faced any accountability. More on the tragedy here.

● The trial of former leaders of the now-defunct, unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR) continues. They face charges including war crimes, terrorism, attempting to overthrow the government, and other serious offenses. According to the state agency AZERTAC, testimonies from victims were heard at the session. Dozens of witnesses described killings of Azerbaijani civilians and mistreatment of captives by Armenian troops. The trial will continue on July 4.

● The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly has adopted a resolution calling for support to Azerbaijan in demining, reconstruction, and restoration of territories liberated from occupation.

● Azerbaijani athlete Gunay Gurbanova won a gold medal at the U20 European Youth Championship in Caorle, Italy.

● Armenian media and social networks are actively discussing a possible meeting between the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan in July in Abu Dhabi. The reason for this was a publication by Middle East Eye. Political observer Tatul Hakobyan, citing his sources, named a specific date – July 10. According to him, the meeting will discuss a U.S. proposal on the unblocking of regional communications – the issue of the so-called “Zangezur Corridor.” This is a potential road that could link mainland Azerbaijan with its exclave Nakhchivan, but must pass through Armenian territory. Yerevan insists it will control its section of the road, while Baku believes the road should be fully extraterritorial. Tatul Hakobyan describes the American plan as follows: “Baku will not have control over the Zangezur Corridor, and Yerevan will delegate its functions to an Armenian-American organization.” More on the project in the commentary from Baku here.

● “The partnership between Armenia and the U.S. is stronger than ever. I look forward to new achievements that our two countries will accomplish, working to build a sustainable and prosperous future for our nations,” said U.S. Ambassador Kristina Kvien at the Independence Day reception. Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan congratulated American partners and emphasized that in January 2025 the Charter of Strategic Partnership between the two countries was signed. “We highly value U.S. support for peace efforts in the South Caucasus,” said Grigoryan.

● “Over the past year, we have made remarkable progress in our relations,” said Canadian Ambassador Andrew Turner at a meeting with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan. The Armenian president confirmed that “the progress in relations between the two countries in recent years is impressive.” He congratulated the ambassador on Canada Day and thanked him for supporting Armenia’s independence and territorial integrity.

● The Armenian parliament approved a statement “On the inadmissibility of the seizure of state power through violence and the protection of democracy.” This was an initiative of the ruling Civil Contract party. The statement says that the National Assembly strongly condemns the attempted terrorist act prepared against the constitutional order and legitimate authorities of the Republic of Armenia, which was uncovered by law enforcement agencies in June 2025. “Terror and attempts to seize state power through violence aim to destroy Armenia’s democratic institutions and create internal and external threats to the country. Any action aimed at terrorism and overthrowing the constitutional order will be punished with the utmost severity in accordance with the constitution,” the statement reads. More on the foiled coup attempt – here.

● A conflict broke out in parliament after opposition MP Hovik Agazaryan appealed to Russia “not to fall for provocations from the Armenian authorities.” By “provocations” he meant the arrests of a prominent Russian businessman and two clergymen, accused of incitement to seize power. According to investigators, all three were involved in the attempted coup in Armenia. Pro-Russian statements in support of them are actively voiced from Russia. MPs from the ruling faction responded to Agazaryan with cries of “Shame.” He then threw a bottle at his colleagues. The deputy speaker leading the session removed him from the chamber. It’s notable that Agazaryan entered parliament on the ruling party’s list but was expelled late last year for “disclosing confidential state and party information and grossly violating moral norms.” Read more here

● Lawyers for Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan, arrested on charges of inciting violent regime change, have filed an appeal to the Court of Criminal Appeals. The date of the hearing has not been announced.

● “The process of granting Armenian citizenship to forcibly displaced persons from Nagorno-Karabakh is being carried out under a simplified procedure and without online registration,” said Interior Minister Arpine Sargsyan. Recently, Karabakh Armenians have become more active in applying for citizenship. Initially, many feared that taking Armenian citizenship would mean losing their right to return home or reclaim property left behind. The minister reported that 9,346 people have received citizenship, and 4,400 minors have been issued Armenian passports. The citizenship law allows for 90 working days to review applications, but for Karabakh refugees it takes about a month.

● The government plans to expand its housing assistance program for families displaced from Karabakh and make it available to all target groups. An interagency commission will be created to review previously rejected applications. This will allow applicants’ rights to be restored without court proceedings. The requirement that residential buildings be constructed only by licensed construction firms will be removed. A new mechanism will allow land plots to be acquired through direct payment to the seller.

● Parliament approved a legislative package amending the laws “On Regulation of Public Services” and “On Energy.” The ruling faction introduced it after the prime minister spoke of a possible nationalization of Electric Networks of Armenia. Currently, 70% of the company’s shares are owned by Tashir Capital, part of the holding of Russian businessman Samvel Karapetyan. He has been arrested on charges of inciting the seizure of power and usurpation of the Armenian government’s authority.

● The confrontation between the Armenian authorities and the church continues. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan continues to post on social media accusing the Catholicos of All Armenians of failing to uphold church values and calling on him to step down. His latest post reads: “In 2020–2021, Ktrich Nersisyan [secular name of the Catholicos] called for the resignation of the authorities. In the snap parliamentary elections that followed, which the international community deemed free, democratic and competitive, the people gave a vote of confidence to the ruling team. That also meant distrust toward those occupying the Holy See. In June 2025, the bells of Etchmiadzin rang, calling people to gather [referring to the day Archbishop Mikael Ajapakhyan was detained in the Catholicos’ residence]. In the end, no more than 1,500 people gathered. Another argument in favor of Ktrich Nersisyan stepping down from the Holy See immediately. There is no other option.”

● Armenia is inspired by its cooperation with major international tech companies Firebird and NVIDIA. A joint project has been announced to establish an artificial intelligence factory in Armenia, valued at $500 million. The prime minister recently met with Firebird co-founder and CEO Razmig Hovaghimian, NVIDIA Vice President Rev Lebaredian, and Team Telecom Armenia co-founder and board chair Aleksandr Yesayan. They reportedly discussed implementation details of this unprecedented project. More on that here.

● “The Constitutional Reform Council will vote on whether to keep the reference to the Declaration of Independence in the new constitution,” said Justice Minister Srbuhi Galyan. This is one of Azerbaijan’s preconditions for signing a peace treaty. Baku considers the mention of Nagorno-Karabakh in the declaration to be a territorial claim. Armenian authorities say the constitution contains no such claims and that amendments are a domestic issue. Recently, however, political voices have emerged suggesting that changes may be possible.

● Members of Armenia’s U20 Greco-Roman wrestling team won one silver and one bronze medal at the European Championships in Caorle, Italy. The medalists were brothers Gaspar Terteryan (72 kg, silver) and Samvel Terteryan (77 kg, bronze).

In the photo: Armenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan with U.S. Ambassador Kristina Kvien at a reception marking the United States Independence Day. Photo from the U.S. Embassy website.

● US ambassador Robin Dunnigan: “In Georgia, citizens opposing the government remain in prison. Civil society representatives face persecution for advocating the rule of law, free media, and fair elections. Ordinary citizens are labeled radicals just for holding views different from the government. As the US vice president said, you don’t earn a democratic mandate by silencing or jailing opponents. You don’t earn it by ignoring core constituencies on who belongs in our shared society. Those of us enjoying democratic freedoms must never take them for granted. Let’s always strive to protect and strengthen the freedoms we value. As John Kennedy said, the price of freedom is eternal vigilance. That was the price yesterday, it is today, and always will be. Finally, I want to highlight what fuels democracy — optimism. I remain optimistic about democracy in both the US and here in Georgia.”

● Mamuka Khazaradze, a leader of the opposition alliance Lelo–Strong Georgia, published a letter from prison urging opposition unity and nationwide mobilization. He calls for joint efforts “to fight in Tbilisi and in the cities taken over by Georgian Dream in 2024,” adding that “Georgian Dream must not be allowed to systematically consolidate power at all levels.”

● The Times published an article by British political analyst Edward Lucas on intensifying political repression in Georgia. He writes that the crackdown on pro-Western activists, think tanks, and independent media is becoming increasingly severe, and that the Kremlin-backed regime is escalating repression through new laws following last year’s rigged parliamentary elections. Lucas warns that these moves are carried out “within the framework of the law,” giving them a dangerous legitimacy. “Events in Georgia are not just domestic; they matter to Britain and affect regional stability in the Black Sea, where Russia seeks to expand its influence and where Iran and China are already well represented.”

● Edward Lucas claims the UK wields significant influence in Georgia and cites a member of the Coalition for Change, Marika Mikiashvili, who said: “What the regime fears most is British sanctions.”

● Iran’s embassy in Georgia reported that Georgian Dream deputy foreign minister Aleksandre Khvtisi­shvili expressed condolences and solidarity with Iran during an event held at the embassy in memory of the “martyrs killed in an Israeli regime attack on Iran’s territorial integrity.”

● “The anti-American Georgian Dream regime attended an event hosted by the terrorist Iranian regime in memory of ‘martyrs’ killed in an Israeli attack, and expressed solidarity with terrorists. Georgian Dream loves terrorist Iran and the Communist Party of China and hates America,” Republican Congressman Joe Wilson wrote on X.

● The Israeli embassy said it was concerned about the Georgian Dream deputy foreign minister’s presence at the solidarity event at the Iranian embassy. A representative told Formula TV that Israel was “deeply disappointed” by the incident.

● The opposition Coalition for Change issued a statement on the incident: “This is yet another immoral move by the Ivanishvili regime and does not reflect the position of the Georgian people.”

● The Georgian Dream foreign ministry responded to the deputy minister’s visit to the Iranian embassy and the solidarity message: “We are deeply concerned about rising tensions in the Middle East, which threaten regional security. We especially emphasize the importance of diplomatic efforts for de-escalation and stability. On June 26, the Iranian embassy formally notified the MFA of the opening of a condolence book, and an appropriate message was recorded.”

● Germany’s foreign ministry expressed support for its ambassador to Georgia, Peter Fischer, amid attacks from Georgian Dream representatives, who accused him of violating the Vienna Convention and called for his expulsion. The ministry clarified that a diplomat’s job is “to know what is happening in the host country and to speak with all relevant parties, as outlined in the Vienna Convention.” The ministry rejected the unfounded accusations and said restoring relations depended on Georgia.

● Parliament, controlled by Georgian Dream, passed in the third reading new amendments that toughen punishment for storing or cultivating marijuana and cannabis.

● Georgian Dream introduced a new amendment to the code of administrative offenses stating that a person will face administrative detention if they fail to pay a fine for road-blocking, disobeying police, or insulting an official — and repeat the “offense.” The amendment passed with 83 votes in favor and none opposed.

●  Former president Serzh Sargsyan has been charged with bribery and illegal involvement in entrepreneurial activities. The Anti-Corruption Committee reported that Sargsyan, while serving as Armenia’s defense minister, prime minister, and president between 2000 and 2018, “violated the legal ban by using his official position to create and operate organizations engaged in commercial activity.” The preliminary investigation has been completed, and the case has been sent to the Anti-Corruption Court with an indictment.

●  Belgium’s Chamber of Representatives has adopted a resolution on the situation in the South Caucasus and the need for peace in the region. It includes:

• • Condemnation of statements made in Baku referring to Armenian territory as “Western Azerbaijan,” calling the situation a threat to Armenia’s territorial integrity.
• • A reminder that Azerbaijan continues to occupy more than 220 sq/km of Armenian territory.
• • Support for targeted sanctions against individuals and organizations that have violated the November 9, 2020 ceasefire agreement, committed human rights violations, or threatened Armenia’s territorial integrity.
• • A demand for the release of all Armenian prisoners held in Azerbaijani jails and the protection of their rights.
• • A call to allow a UNESCO mission to assess the state of Armenian cultural, historical, and religious heritage in Nagorno-Karabakh.

●  Head of Armenia’s delegation to the OSCE PA, Sargis Khandanyan, has been elected chair of the committee on human rights and humanitarian issues. Armenian social media is discussing a report from the government-linked website civic.am, claiming that another Armenian delegate, opposition MP Lilith Galstyan from the “Ayastan” faction and the Dashnaktsutyun party, “stole a ballot and skipped the session” to prevent Khandanyan’s election.

●  Prime minister Nikol Pashinyan met with the head of Singapore-based Trafigura, a company specializing in metals, energy, and hydrocarbons trading. Joint cooperation in the mining sector is planned. The company’s president, Jeremy Weir, expressed interest in investment projects in Armenia.

●  Speaker of Parliament Alen Simonyan’s recent statement about banning Russian TV channels has sparked widespread discussion. This follows another episode of Russian state TV host Vladimir Solovyov’s program that attacked Armenia’s authorities. In response, Solovyov intensified his criticism, calling Simonyan a “pathetic puppet.” Simonyan wrote on Facebook:
“Reading reactions from Russian colleagues, I ask a simple question: doesn’t anyone wonder why? […] There’s no need to invent enemies — just turn on your TV. Because those who damage Russian-Armenian relations best are not Western spies or NGOs, but some Russian state media, journalists, and editors. […] This must stop. Either you stop it — or we will.”

●  “This is an obvious and dangerous information campaign, first and foremost for Armenia,” said Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, commenting on Armenian media reports alleging ties between Armenia’s opposition, clergy, and Russia. The reports involve two arrested archbishops and a Russian businessman accused of plotting a coup. Zakharova stated: “Russia is genuinely interested in a stable Armenia. Not only for the sake of high ideals — it’s also in our interest to have a stable, prosperous, and developing Armenia.”

●  Armenia’s penitentiary service confirmed that the health of both detained archbishops is stable. This follows media claims that one of them was in deteriorating condition. “This information is false,” the statement said.

●  During searches at the Yerevan office of the “Tashir” company, owned by arrested businessman Samvel Karapetyan, authorities seized computers and documents, according to his lawyer. Karapetyan, who holds both Armenian and Russian citizenship, has been detained for two months. He is accused of inciting the overthrow of the government. The searches are part of a case involving large-scale money laundering and tax evasion. His defense team plans to appeal the legality of the investigation.

●  Parliament passed in the first reading legal amendments on the potential nationalization of “Electric Networks of Armenia,” 70% of which is owned by “Tashir Capital,” part of Karapetyan’s holding. Authorities had previously reported violations in the company’s management.

●  Two Armenian media outlets reported that employees of “Electric Networks of Armenia” are being pressured to participate in rallies in support of Karapetyan, under threat of dismissal. Similar complaints have been received from staff at other Russian companies, including Gazprom and the South Caucasus Railway.

●  “Employees of ENA who neglect their duties and engage in political games will be dismissed in July,” prime minister Nikol Pashinyan wrote on Facebook. He added that those forcing workers to attend rallies will also be held accountable. “ENA workers who resist both groups and stay committed to their duties will have no issues. Those fired for disobedience will be reinstated in July and receive back pay,” he promised.

●  Telecom company VIVA Armenia is acquiring 100% of OVIO, formerly a subsidiary of Russia’s Rostelecom. Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission has approved the deal. VIVA plans to invest $150 million over the next three years in developing 5G and cloud infrastructure. The company recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

●  “One of the government’s priorities is turning Armenia into a regional tech hub, which aligns with EU-Armenia cooperation under the EU4 Innovation East program,” said high-tech industry minister Mkhitar Hayrapetyan during a meeting with EU delegation head Vassilis Maragos. The two discussed new opportunities to strengthen cooperation. Hayrapetyan presented Armenia’s latest tech achievements and initiatives.

●  The National Youth Forum will take place in Armenia from August 5–7 for the second time. The event aims to unite youth from the Armenian diaspora and Armenia to explore collaboration and propose new initiatives. This year, 800 participants are expected — 600 from the diaspora and 200 from Armenia.

●  A brown bear that had been kept for years at the “Nairi Spa Resorts” hotel in Hankavan has been rescued. The bear, now 11 years old, was freed by staff of the Wildlife Rescue Center of the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC), in cooperation with Armenia’s environmental inspectorate. He is now safe at the FPWC rescue center. “He will live in good conditions under the care of our specialists,” the FPWC team said.

● The General Prosecutor’s Office of Azerbaijan reported that at least 14 people were detained in Yekaterinburg, Russia, including 12 Azerbaijani citizens. At least seven of them were subjected to physical violence and torture. Two of the detainees, Ziyaddin and Guseyn Safarov, died during detention, while two others remain hospitalized in Yekaterinburg. On June 27, Russian special forces raided a café owned by an ethnic Azerbaijani family and conducted violent searches in their apartments. Read more here

● Azerbaijan has launched an investigation into the torture and intentional killing of Azerbaijani citizens in Yekaterinburg. Forensic examination in Baku revealed serious injuries, including bilateral rib fractures and brain hemorrhaging from multiple head traumas. Read more here

● The Russian Investigative Committee stated that it has filed charges against members of a criminal group allegedly involved in particularly serious crimes in Yekaterinburg in 2001, 2010, and 2011. One of the accused reportedly confessed and named accomplices.

● Russian Ambassador Mikhail Yevdokimov was summoned to Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry and handed a note of protest regarding the events in Yekaterinburg. Among the points raised:

• Forensic reports confirmed signs of severe violence on the bodies of the deceased.

• Russian media were accused of promoting ethnic intolerance.

• Azerbaijan again called for an objective investigation and accountability for those responsible.

• It was stressed that Azerbaijan’s position should not be seen as interference in Russia’s internal affairs.

• Azerbaijani authorities stated that the detentions at the Sputnik Azerbaijan office were fully compliant with national law, and the investigation is ongoing.

• They rejected what they called a disinformation campaign by Russian officials and media following the Azerbaijan Airlines plane incident, in which an aircraft was shot down in Russian airspace late last year.

• Azerbaijan expects a full and transparent investigation of that tragedy, punishment of those responsible, and compensation for victims.

• These steps are seen as crucial for improving the negative atmosphere in bilateral relations.

●  Foreign Ministry spokesperson Aykhan Hajizade denied Russian claims that physical force was used during the detention of Russian journalists in Baku. He also rejected accusations that Azerbaijani authorities failed to respond to official requests: “Those detained were members of groups, including Russian citizens, operating the unregistered local branch of Russian media outlet Sputnik Azerbaijan. This information was promptly shared with the public. All inquiries from the Russian side were immediately forwarded to the relevant authorities. The Russian side is aware of the response deadlines under the Convention. It should also be noted that Baku has never politicized the fact that Russia repeatedly delayed responses to Azerbaijani requests for consular visits to its citizens held in various Russian cities. We call on the Russian side to refrain from steps and statements that artificially escalate the situation,” Hajizade said.

● The Russian Embassy in Azerbaijan claimed in a statement that Russian citizens in Baku, including tourists, are being visited in hotels and apartments by “men in civilian clothing asking about the purpose of their stay and checking documents.” Some reported that physical force was used against them and their family members.

● Russian presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that no phone call is planned between Presidents Putin and Aliyev. “Russia hopes that all details will be clarified through dialogue between [Investigative Committee head] Bastrykin and Azerbaijan’s Prosecutor General,” he said.

● Peskov also commented on contacts between the presidents of Ukraine and Azerbaijan: “Moscow sees attempts by Kyiv to destabilize relations between Russia and Azerbaijan and provoke tensions. Kyiv is doing everything to add fuel to the fire and push Baku toward emotional actions.”

● Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Education denied rumors about the closure of Russian-language schools in the country.

● Reports emerged that a criminal case has been opened in Moscow against billionaire Aras Agalarov, a Russian national of Azerbaijani descent.

● Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Ersin Tatar, arrived in Azerbaijan to attend the 17th summit of the Organization for Economic Cooperation of Central Asian and Middle Eastern countries, held on July 3–4 in Khankendi, Karabakh.

● A meeting was held between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. They discussed partnership prospects and noted that the joint project portfolio of the two countries has reached $4 billion. “Never in history have our relations been at such a high level,” Mirziyoyev said, according to Report.

● Between June 13 and 23, a total of 10,838 flights passed through Azerbaijani airspace, according to the pro-government outlet Report. Due to temporary airspace closures in various parts of the region, an average of 110 additional flights per day were rerouted through Azerbaijan, a 20% increase over the same period last year. A further 13% increase is projected.

📸 The photo shows the detainees in Yekaterinburg: Mazakhir Safarov, Akif Safarov, Ayaz Safarov, Akhliman Ganjiev, Shahin Lalayev, Bakir Safarov, Aziz Abbasov, Kamal Safarov.

● French Minister for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad stated: “The authoritarian drift of Georgian Dream is unacceptable. This path goes against the European aspirations of the Georgian people, and our response will be swift.” Haddad said he took part in a coordination meeting on developments in Georgia, convened by UK Minister for Europe, North America, and Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty.

● UK MP James McCleary welcomed a letter from imprisoned opposition leader Zurab Japaridze and called on the UK to immediately impose sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili and his “corrupt government.” “I’m especially grateful that Japaridze mentioned me in the letter. Zurab and all Georgian political prisoners deserve freedom and justice now,” McCleary wrote.

● The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) said the recent amendments to the law on freedom of expression are repressive. GYLA views not only these amendments, but also previous changes to the broadcasting law and newly introduced administrative penalties for social media comments as part of a campaign of repression against citizens and critical media.

● Georgian Dream is tightening penalties for possession and cultivation of marijuana. A bill supported in its first reading by the parliament’s legal committee proposes the following:

• • Possession of 10–155g of cannabis, 10–140g of raw marijuana, or 5–70g of dried marijuana: up to 6 years in prison.
• • Illegal production and transportation: 3 to 7 years in prison.
• • Possession of 155–750g of cannabis, 140–500g of raw marijuana, or 70–250g of dried marijuana: 5 to 8 years in prison.
• • Production and transportation of these larger quantities: 6 to 9 years in prison.
• • Cultivation of up to 155g: up to 6 years in prison.

• Alternative punishments include community service or house arrest.

● Sociologist Iago Kachkachishvili published results from a public opinion poll conducted by his ISSA firm on whether the opposition should participate in the October municipal elections:

• • 45.5% say opposition parties should take part without any conditions.
• • 26.2% support participation only if early parliamentary elections are held.
• • Only 20.5% of opposition voters support participating regardless of early elections.
• • 43.3% support a boycott of parliament.

● Marc Cools, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, issued a protest statement against government pressure on the opposition ahead of the October municipal elections. He expressed concern over the political divide and said “the detention of opposition leaders severely hinders the possibility of political dialogue.”

● Georgian Dream is introducing new amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses. If adopted, citizens could face administrative detention for failing to pay fines related to road blockages, disobeying police, insulting officials, or repeated offenses. The legal committee has already approved the initiative in its first hearing.

● One of the leaders of the Coalition for Change, Nika Gvaramia, has been sentenced to 8 months in prison for refusing to testify before the Georgian Dream’s commission investigating the actions of previous authorities (during Mikheil Saakashvili’s presidency) and for failing to pay the bail set by the court. Gvaramia has also been banned from holding public office for two years. He was not present at the court hearing.

● The Azerbaijani Ambassador to Russia, Rakhman Mustafayev, officially delivered a note of protest to the Russian Foreign Ministry over severe violations in Yekaterinburg, where ethnic Azerbaijanis—including both Azerbaijani and Russian citizens—were killed and brutally beaten. Read more here

● Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Aykhan Hajizada stated: “The note emphasized that these actions violate Russian law and universally recognized human rights. It also expressed serious concern over ethnic intolerance toward Azerbaijanis during the raids and in Russian media coverage. An urgent investigation and accountability for those responsible were demanded.”

● The Russian Foreign Ministry released a statement claiming that Azerbaijan is taking “deliberate steps to dismantle bilateral relations.” These steps include the cancellation of high-level events within the framework of interstate dialogue; an “anti-Russian campaign in Azerbaijani media encouraged by the authorities”; “outrageous and unacceptable actions by Azerbaijani law enforcement against the Russian news agency Sputnik Azerbaijan and its staff”; and the cancellation of all cultural events involving Russian performers. The ministry demanded the immediate release of Russian journalists Kartavykh and Belousov, detained in Baku. Read more here

● Regarding the killing and detention of ethnic Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated that “the investigative actions were carried out in full accordance with Russian law as part of criminal investigations into serious crimes committed in previous years on Russian territory.” The statement added, “Baku’s attempts to accuse Russian law enforcement of abuse of power constitute interference in Russia’s internal affairs.”

●  During the meeting with the Russian MFA, Ambassador Mustafayev said the detentions at Sputnik Azerbaijan were fully in line with Azerbaijani law and international commitments. According to Hajizada, the office was warned on February 12 that it lacked legal grounds to operate in Azerbaijan and was given three days to cease activities. Despite this, the outlet and its Russian staff—whose accreditation had been revoked—continued working illegally. A criminal case has been opened. Azerbaijan rejected Russia’s complaints and urged Moscow not to interfere in its internal affairs. Hajizada stressed that, unlike Russian forces in Yekaterinburg, Azerbaijani authorities acted within the law, and Russia’s conduct contradicted the spirit of bilateral ties.

●  Hajizada also called Russian presidential envoy Mikhail Shvydkoy’s remarks “unacceptable.” Shvydkoy had criticized Azerbaijan’s cancellation of Russian cultural events, saying it impoverished the country’s cultural space. Hajizada responded that the decision was a lawful and appropriate reaction to the killings and violence in Yekaterinburg. “We do not believe that concerts by Russian performers like Basta enrich Azerbaijan’s thousand-year-old culture,” he said.

●  Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to offer condolences over the killings and assaults of ethnic Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg. The two also agreed to hold a bilateral intergovernmental commission meeting in Baku soon. Both sides reaffirmed support for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Zelensky also thanked Azerbaijan for its humanitarian assistance, APA reports.

●  Shahin Shikhlinski, head of the Azerbaijani diaspora in Yekaterinburg (pictured below), and his son Mutvali Shikhlinski were released. APA reports they were detained as witnesses during a special forces raid that resulted in the deaths of two Azerbaijani citizens—the Safarov brothers—and the beating and arrest of nine others.

●  The Azerbaijani Bar Association will appeal to international human rights organizations over the violence against Azerbaijanis in Russia. Its chairman, Anar Baghirov, said the Shikhlinskis are experienced lawyers and were targeted for defending illegally detained diaspora members. “They were brutally humiliated and beaten like criminals. Shahin Shikhlinski is also a well-known businessman and diaspora leader,” Baghirov noted.

●  The Milli Majlis commission on foreign interference and hybrid threats stated that Azerbaijan is facing a disinformation campaign linked to the 12-day standoff between Iran and Israel. It blamed “insidious forces” operating from Iran and neighboring countries for spreading false claims on social media about Azerbaijan’s role in the conflict. The statement also accused the Iranian ambassador to Armenia of provocative remarks and noted increased anti-Azerbaijani rhetoric from pro-Armenian circles in Iran. Over 600 social media accounts – mainly in Azerbaijani, Russian, Persian, and some in English, Turkish, and Arabic – are reportedly involved, including 215 active TikTok accounts. The commission said countermeasures would follow.

●  Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to visit Azerbaijan to attend the 17th summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization for Central Asia and the Middle East, to be held in Khankendi (Karabakh) on July 3–4.

●  Azerbaijani representative to the UN, Tofiq Musayev, addressed the General Assembly about the expulsion of Azerbaijanis from Armenia, the thousands still missing, and the landmine threat. According to pro-government outlet Report, he said:

• The remains of 179 people were found in 25 mass graves on de-occupied Azerbaijani lands and returned to families.

• Around 300,000 Azerbaijanis fled Armenia in the late 1980s; tens of thousands were killed or injured.

• The fate of about 4,000 missing Azerbaijanis remains unknown.

• A large-scale ethnic cleansing occurred in Armenia, along with destruction of Azerbaijani heritage.

• Liberated areas are mined, including cemeteries and cultural sites.

He concluded that “as long as impunity persists, there can be neither justice nor lasting peace.”

●  The trial of Ruben Vardanyan, former state minister of the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic and Armenian citizen, continues. He faces charges including torture, mercenarism, war crimes, and terrorism. According to Azertaj, Vardanyan requested more time to review court documents. Victim testimonies were heard, and the next hearing is scheduled for July 8.

Video: Beating during the arrest of Shahin Shikhlinsky, head of the Azerbaijani diaspora in Yekaterinburg, Russia:

Azerbaijani Diaspora Leader Violently Detained in Russia, Escalating Diplomatic Standoff Between Baku and Moscow

Shahin Shikhlinski, a prominent Azerbaijani diaspora leader, has been violently detained in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, further deepening tensions between the… pic.twitter.com/mBq4cI3L6J

— JAMnews (@JAMnewsCaucasus) July 1, 2025

● The Investigative Committee of Armenia has identified the source of a fake recording circulating on social media, in which Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan allegedly instructs law enforcement to arrest opposition leaders. Committee head Artur Poghosyan told Public Television the audio was created abroad and aimed to discredit state institutions and cast government actions in a negative light.

● Poghosyan also shared some details about a recently thwarted coup attempt in Armenia. Read details here

● Minister of Energy and Water Resources Davit Khudatyan commented on the possible nationalization of the Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA), owned by jailed Russian businessman Samvel Karapetyan. He said the government intervened due to severe operational problems and plans to overhaul the system with a 12.5 billion dram (\$33 million) investment. Nationalization is only being considered after a full assessment of the situation. Karapetyan is accused of inciting the overthrow of the government. Read more details here

● Parliament is reviewing a legislative package from the ruling Civil Contract faction that proposes amendments to energy-related laws. The aim is to introduce preventive legal tools for state intervention in the energy sector. Currently, authorities can only respond to violations, not prevent them. ENA’s acting director Davit Gazinyan said the company will legally challenge the move, stating that 91.8% of its 2023 investment plan was completed and operational efficiency has improved.

● Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan called for halting Russian TV broadcasts in Armenia. Reacting sharply to Russian statements about Karapetyan’s arrest, he accused Russian media of being paid by Karapetyan and interfering in Armenia’s internal affairs. He said it’s time to seriously consider ending Russian TV transmissions in the country.

● The EU will provide Armenia with €270 million in support of democratic reforms by 2027, announced EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. She also pledged major funding for Armenia’s independent media to support their resilience and continued operations.

● Summarizing her recent trip to Armenia, Kallas said she met with government officials, civil society, and “motivated young Armenians.” She emphasized the importance of a new EU-Armenia partnership focused on economic development, security, and resilience. The EU supports normalization between Armenia and Azerbaijan based on sovereignty, territorial integrity, and inviolable borders, calling these three principles non-negotiable.

● An international conference is being held in Yerevan marking the 107th anniversary of Armenia’s Prosecutor’s Office and Prosecutor’s Day. It is organized under EU- and Council of Europe-funded programs supporting judicial reform and the fight against economic crime.

● On Prosecutor’s Day, Pashinyan posted on Facebook: “Our government’s policy is zero tolerance for corruption. We remain consistent in this effort.”

● Pashinyan also thanked “all citizens who work and fulfill their tax obligations,” noting that tax and customs revenues exceeded projections by 6.5 billion drams (\$17 million) in the first half of the year.

● Defense Minister Suren Papikyan met with Armenia’s military attachés abroad to review their work and outline new tasks, presenting an update on army reforms.

● “Always a pleasure to welcome young professionals at EUMA headquarters and introduce them to the EU mission’s role in Armenia. Thank you to the Geneva Academy students for their visit and insightful questions,” said the EU monitoring mission stationed at the Armenia-Azerbaijan border (see photo below). Surveys show a strong majority of Armenians believe the presence of EU monitors has contributed to relative calm and stability along the border.

● Iran’s embassy in Yerevan hosted a memorial for victims of Israeli airstrikes. Visitors offered condolences and wrote messages in the book of mourning.

● Yerevan City Hall announced the completion of design work for the city’s 11th metro station, “Ajapnyak,” with construction set to begin this year.

● About 25–30% of Yerevan’s public transport passengers don’t pay fares, according to Deputy Minister Armen Simonyan. He presented a bill to parliament introducing fines for fare evasion.

●  Elene Khoshtaria, leader of the “Coalition for Change,” read out a joint statement from eight opposition parties (pictured below). She addressed the public from Rustaveli Avenue, where she has been on a hunger strike for several days in protest against the ruling “Georgian Dream” party (pictured). The parties announced they will not participate in the upcoming municipal elections in October, stating that doing so would not serve the public interest and would only create a false sense of legitimacy for the government.

The statement was joined by: United National Movement, European Georgia, Strategy Aghmashenebeli, Girchi — More Freedom, Akhali, Liberty Square, Federalists, and Droa.

●  The UK Foreign Office issued a protest over “Georgian Dream’s” crackdown on civil society, independent media, and dissenting voices in Georgia. A statement on the UK government website said: “The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office protests Georgian Dreams crackdown on civil society, independent media and critical voice in Georgia. On 30 June 2025, the Georgian Chargé d’Affaires was summoned to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, where a senior official made clear the UK’s firm opposition to their country’s increasingly harmful trajectory and strongly objected to false claims and public attacks launched by Georgian Dream against the UK and international partners. An FCDO Spokesperson said: “The imprisonment of prominent opposition leaders is the latest attempt by the Georgian government to crack down on freedoms and stifle dissent. The detention of election rivals is incompatible with any remaining Euro-Atlantic aspirations held by Georgian Dream as well as their own constitutional commitments. The UK Government will not hesitate to consider further action should Georgia not return to respecting and upholding democracy, freedoms, and human rights.”

●  The International Press Institute (IPI) issued another critical statement: “In light of growing pressure on media in Georgia by the government, the international community must take immediate steps and apply effective pressure on Georgian Dream.”

●  Freedom House expressed concern over the arrests of opposition leaders and repression of civil society by Georgian Dream:
“These actions are pushing Georgia further from the standards required for EU integration. We call on the authorities to respect political pluralism and foster a vibrant civil society — a key feature of any strong democracy.”

●  EU visa restrictions for holders of Georgian diplomatic passports have taken effect. PM Irakli Kobakhidze said he had already traveled to Europe after receiving a visa: “There’s no problem. It’s an absolutely shameful decision, but it’s their decision and their right,” said Kobakhidze. Read more here

●  “The announced reorganization at the Foreign Ministry aims to fire or demote employees who openly support Georgia’s European path and signed the joint statement of 28 November 2024,” wrote Shalva Tsiskarashvili, Director of the Department of International Organizations at the Georgian MFA, on X. He said he is leaving the diplomatic service in protest after 28 years. Read more here

●  Faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the Givi Zaldastanishvili American Academy issued a joint statement condemning Georgian Dream’s political repression and calling the government’s actions a policy directed against civil society.
The statement highlights that among those detained are the Academy’s co-founders Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze, as well as the wife of a teacher, Nino Datashvili, and the wife of graduate Giorgi Vashadze.

●  Accounts of the regional private TV company TV Trialeti have been frozen. In recent months, the channel aired frequent criticism of Georgian Dream. 10% of the channel, based in the Shida Kartli region, is owned by Georgian Dream’s honorary chairman and billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili. TV Trialeti actively supported his rise to power in 2012 and remained a government ally for years.
The official reason for the freeze is an old debt from 10–15 years ago. The channel itself believes the move is retaliation for political criticism voiced on its June talk shows. A post on its Facebook page reads: “Regional authorities were told not to appear on the channel or give interviews. The freeze order was issued on instructions from Kobakhidze and Ohanashvili as an act of revenge. This is the only regional TV station that backed Ivanishvili from the start and supported him for years. A company linked to Ivanishvili is now expected to take over the channel’s shares.”

●  Georgian Dream’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze introduced the new Minister of Education, Science, and Youth — Givi Mikanadze.

●  Varketili metro station in Tbilisi will be closed for 45 days starting July 12 due to planned renovation work.

●  Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan introduced the new head of the National Security Service, Andranik Simonyan. “All threats that could have destabilized Armenia and created security risks have so far been successfully neutralized by the NSS,” said Pashinyan. He was likely referring to the attempted coup recently uncovered and prevented by Armenian security services. More on that here.

●  “Armenia and Azerbaijan have made a major and important step toward peace. An agreement has been reached on a peace treaty and the establishment of interstate relations between the two countries,” said Armenian delegation member Artur Hovhannisyan at the 32nd annual OSCE PA session in Portugal. “International support is needed to ensure the countries sign it as soon as possible without preconditions. Armenia’s leader has repeatedly expressed his willingness publicly,” he added.

●  EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas concluded her visit to Yerevan. Following meetings with Armenia’s prime minister and foreign minister, an agreement was signed outlining Armenia’s involvement in EU crisis management operations. According to Kallas, this includes Armenia’s participation in EU missions around the world. More details here.

●  Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan publicly rebuked his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov. “Mr. Lavrov used the phrase ‘a government campaign against the church’ regarding Armenia. This is absolutely untrue. What’s happening in Armenia is a legal process, and it is Armenia’s internal matter. It would be better if Mr. Lavrov refrained from interfering in Armenia’s domestic affairs. The same goes for his parliamentary and media partners in Russia. I believe that Russian officials, parliamentarians, and media experts should treat Armenia’s sovereignty with greater respect.”

●  There is renewed discussion in Armenia about cutting off Russian TV channels. The debate was reignited after another broadcast of Dmitry Kiselyov’s show on the Russian state channel “Russia.” Kiselyov spoke of a “confrontation between Armenian authorities and the church” and spread misinformation. The main message of the show was that Armenian clergy are criticizing the country’s pro-Western course, which brings no benefits, while cooperation with Russia has always been mutually beneficial. It was also claimed that Russian businessman Samvel Karapetyan, currently under arrest and accused of inciting government overthrow, “supports the church on this path.”

●  Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei commented on the resolutions of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which Yerevan considers anti-Armenian. “Member states may raise issues in collective documents that do not necessarily reflect the positions of individual members. We have good and balanced relations with both Armenia and Azerbaijan. Some terms and expressions used in the OIC document are unacceptable to us,” he said.

Following the ministerial conference, OIC member states adopted the “Istanbul Declaration” and several resolutions initiated by Azerbaijan, including one titled “The Right of Return for Azerbaijanis Forcibly Displaced from the Territory of Present-Day Armenia.” OIC countries condemned Armenia’s denial of the rights of the so-called “Western Azerbaijan” community. More on that here.

●  In Baku, journalist Aytakin Guseynova from the Russian video agency Ruptly was detained while filming a search at the office of “Sputnik Azerbaijan.” The agency reported the incident citing the journalist’s mother. No official reason for the detention has been given. Both outlets belong to the same Russian state media holding, Russia Today.

●  During the raid at Sputnik, its editor-in-chief Igor Kartavykh and chief editor Yevgeny Belousov were also detained. Azerbaijani media reported alleged links between them and Russia’s FSB, though there has been no official confirmation. The Azerbaijani Interior Ministry stated that while the agency’s accreditation was suspended in February, it continued to operate “through illegal funding.”

These arrests come amid a sharp deterioration in Baku-Moscow relations following violent raids and detentions targeting homes of several ethnic Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg, Russia. The raids were reportedly connected to investigations of early-2000s criminal cases. Two people died during the operation. Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong protest, demanding a transparent investigation and punishment of those responsible. Read more here

●  The bodies of Huseyn and Ziyaddin Safarov, killed by Russian special forces in Yekaterinburg, have been returned to Baku. “These people lost their lives as a result of torture by the Russian regime, which refuses to acknowledge this atrocity,” said their brother, Seyfaddin Guseynli, to reporters. A second forensic examination will be conducted in Azerbaijan. “Our family absolutely does not trust the Russian autopsy results. Their claim that my brothers died ‘from stress’ is completely unconvincing,” Guseynli added.

●  All planned cultural events involving Russia have been canceled in Azerbaijan.

●  Azerbaijani NGOs have urged the government to reconsider its cooperation with Russia. “The killings and violent actions in Yekaterinburg without trial are a flagrant manifestation of racial discrimination and fascism. Such actions against Azerbaijanis in Russia are becoming systemic. Numerous pieces of evidence suggest that these crimes are carried out with at least the silent approval of Moscow. To this day, those responsible for the downing of an Azerbaijani passenger plane in Russian airspace in December 2024 have not been identified or brought to justice. This shows the Russian authorities’ unwillingness to uncover this horrific crime,” reads a statement by the National NGO Forum.

●  The EU’s representative in Azerbaijan, Peter Michalko, called the actions of Russian security forces in Yekaterinburg against Azerbaijanis inhumane.

●  Shahla Jalilzade, a consultant at the Center for Social Research: “Russia feels it may lose its military presence in Armenia soon. Changes have already begun in Georgia. Azerbaijan’s support has played a key role in Georgia’s firm position. A decisive factor was Georgia freeing itself from energy dependence on Russia. Azerbaijan contributes to weakening Russia’s regional and global influence by offering alternatives to traditional energy and transport routes. Against this backdrop, Russia’s pressure on Azerbaijan is clearly increasing.”

●  Hundreds of kilograms of contaminated onion rings imported from Russia were destroyed. Azerbaijan’s Food Safety Agency reported the discovery of pathogenic bacteria in the product.

●  Another round of consular consultations between Azerbaijan and Ukraine took place in Baku.

●  Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will arrive in Azerbaijan on July 4. His plane will land at Fuzuli International Airport. Erdoğan will attend the 17th summit of the Organization for Economic Cooperation of Central Asian and Middle Eastern Countries, which will take place in Khankendi, Karabakh, on July 3–4.

●  President of Northern Cyprus Ersin Tatar will visit Azerbaijan on July 2.

●  Deputy Foreign Minister of Bulgaria Elena Shekerletova is visiting Baku.

●  The trial of former leaders of the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR) continues. They are accused of war crimes, terrorism, attempted overthrow of state power, and other serious crimes. The pro-government AZƏRTAC agency reported that former “NKR presidents” Arayik Harutyunyan and Arkadi Ghukasyan answered prosecutors’ questions in court. Harutyunyan revealed:

• In 2020, Armenia’s president personally awarded the title of lieutenant general to the NKR’s “defense minister,” based on a proposal from Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.
• The “NKR military police and prosecutor’s office” were part of Armenia’s armed forces.
• When asked whether any NKR military unit was part of the Armenian army, he answered: “Yes.”

Ghukasyan said:

• From 2001 to 2012, the Armenian company Base Metals operated on occupied territories, extracting copper from the Heyvali deposit and exporting it to Armenia. After the copper ran out, it continued work at other sites.
• In 2001, a 10-year strategic plan was adopted to resettle the territories of Azerbaijan occupied by Armenian forces.
• From October 18–20, 2020, during the Second Karabakh War, he and others went to Yerevan to meet Pashinyan, begging him to stop the fighting.

The trial will continue on July 3.

●  Since the end of the Second Karabakh War in fall 2020, 399 people have been injured by landmines planted by Armenian forces. The most recent incident occurred on June 30 in Aghdam, where a police officer was seriously wounded. “Armenia’s continued refusal to provide full and accurate maps of mined areas poses a serious threat to civilians. The international community must not remain silent in the face of these ongoing violations of humanitarian law,” Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry stated on its X page.

●  A new China–Europe cargo train route has been launched, connecting Beijing to Baku. The transport model “rail-sea-rail” will carry goods across the Caspian Sea by ship, reaching Baku in 15 days. A photo below in China’s People’s Daily Online shows the cargo train waiting to depart at Fangshan’s international land port in Beijing.

●  As of today, July 1, new legislation banning marriages between first cousins has come into force in Azerbaijan.

●  Another large-scale pro-European rally took place in Tbilisi on Sunday evening under the slogan “Georgia, rise up!” In their call to the public, organizers warned: “They are trying to turn our free country into one big prison. Behind bars now are political leaders of pro-Western parties, journalists, activists, doctors, actors, poets, teachers. If this continues, repression will affect everyone — we’ll all be in prison: some as inmates, others as guards, but all imprisoned.” Mass pro-European protests have continued in Georgia for over seven months. Protesters are demanding new, fair parliamentary elections to legally change the government, and the release of detained demonstrators.

●  Georgia’s 5th president, Salome Zourabichvili, spoke at the Sunday protest, once again stressing that “the main way to end the Georgian Dream regime is unity.” She stated that “the collapse of Georgian Dream has already begun, and the opposition must not allow internal conflicts to hide this fact.” “Victory over this regime will not come through elections or hunger strikes. The only path is unity among all pro-Western forces,” Zourabichvili said.

●  Elene Khoshtaria, leader of the opposition “Coalition for Change,” continues her hunger strike, calling it a form of political struggle. She urged the opposition to develop a clear strategy and said she is ready to end her strike if opposition parties collectively agree not to participate in the upcoming municipal elections in October.

●  Tina Bokuchava, chair of the “United National Movement,” expressed support for Elene Khoshtaria and also called for a boycott of the October municipal elections, describing them as “a special operation disguised as local elections.”

●  Amnesty International: “The investigative commission in Georgia’s parliament has become a tool of political repression and is being used to target political opponents, including former officials, for their principled opposition, isolating them ahead of local elections. \[…] Georgian authorities must end their ongoing attacks on dissent, the persecution of protesters and political activists peacefully exercising their rights, and release opposition figures jailed in recent weeks.”

The ruling Georgian Dream party formed the commission to investigate the presidency of Mikheil Saakashvili (2003–2012). The commission’s mandate was later expanded to examine the actions of opposition politicians up to the present day. Georgian Dream says it intends to use the commission’s report to declare the United National Movement unconstitutional and to ban “any political force whose ideology aligns with unconstitutional parties.” Most opposition leaders have refused to testify, citing the illegitimacy of the current parliament, formed after the disputed October elections. As a result, criminal cases were opened against them.

Opposition leaders Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze (Lelo), Nika Melia (Akhalia), Zurab Japaridze (Girchi – More Freedom), Giorgi Vashadze (Strategy Aghmashenebeli), and former MP Givi Targamadze have each already received prison sentences of 7–8 months. Nika Gvaramia (Akhalia) and former defense minister Irakli Okruashvili are awaiting sentencing.

“Georgia, rise up!” – thousands have gathered outside parliament in Tbilisi under this main slogan. In the organizers’ call to the public, they say: “The enemy of Georgia is trying to turn our free country into one big prison. Political leaders of pro-Western parties,… pic.twitter.com/ATGxTarePO

— JAMnews (@JAMnewsCaucasus) June 29, 2025

● Tensions between Azerbaijan and Russia have sharply escalated after Russian special forces raided the “Caspian” café in Yekaterinburg, owned by the ethnic Azerbaijani Safarov family. The operation involved violent searches in their homes. Two men, Ziyaddin and Huseyn Safarov, were killed during the raid. Azerbaijani media report they were brothers of well-known journalist Seyfaddin Huseynli. Several others were injured, and 9 people were arrested. Russian authorities claim the operation was related to crimes committed in the early 2000s and 2010s.

● Azerbaijan’s foreign ministry issued a strong protest to Moscow, demanding a full investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the violence.

● The pro-government Azerbaijani outlet Report published an interview with the lawyer of Akhliman Ganjaliyev, arrested in Yekaterinburg. According to the lawyer, he was tortured for several hours by investigators, despite a lack of evidence connecting him to the alleged crime.

● Azerbaijan’s embassy in Russia and its consulate in Yekaterinburg are working on repatriating the bodies of the Safarov brothers to Baku.

●  In response, Azerbaijan canceled the planned visit of Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk to Baku and a scheduled bilateral parliamentary commission meeting in Moscow.

● Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture canceled all cultural events in or related to Russia and offered refunds for tickets.

● Harsh criticism of Russia is spreading across Azerbaijani media and social platforms. On a state AzTV news broadcast, Russia was called a “prison of nations” and Putin was directly accused of resenting Azerbaijan’s regional strength, regained territories, and President Aliyev’s international standing. The broadcast accused Russia of historically viewing non-Russian nations as inferior.

● Another AzTV anchor stated: “This is systemic policy driven by Vladimir Putin. Look at how Russia treats fellow believers in Ukraine—destroying cities, committing genocide in Bucha, bombing homes. The same applies to its treatment of non-Russian peoples, shaped over decades and now taking monstrous forms.”

● Jasarat Huseynzade, head of the public organization “Support for Information and Social Initiatives,” stated: “These events once again clearly show the imperialist and nationalist nature of Russia.”

● In Russia, there have also been strong anti-Azerbaijani reactions from officials and media:

• Konstantin Zatulin, Deputy Chair of the State Duma Committee on CIS Affairs, called Azerbaijan’s cancellation of cultural events an exaggerated and fabricated response. He accused Baku of distancing itself from Moscow under the guise of partnership, citing past actions like supporting Ukraine and cooperating with Israel against Iran. He referenced the December 2024 crash of an Azerbaijani passenger plane en route to Grozny, believed by Baku to have been shot down by Russian air defenses. Read more here

• His deputy, Viktor Vodolatsky, dismissed Azerbaijan’s actions as a “momentary lapse” and called it part of an Anglo-Saxon strategy to destabilize the post-Soviet space.

• State Duma MP Mikhail Matveyev said: “We must continue to crack down on ethnic criminal business groups and diasporas across Russia—silently and without statements.”

● The State Committee on Work with the Diaspora condemned a provocative article from a fake Telegram channel titled “Azerbaijani Diaspora,” claiming it had no connection to the real diaspora in Russia and was aimed at discrediting Azerbaijan and its people. Media were urged to act responsibly in this sensitive time.

● The same committee announced that the second US-Azerbaijani Youth Forum is currently taking place in Virginia and will become an annual event.

● Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov declared that Azerbaijan’s army is the strongest in the region and plays a key role in maintaining peace and stability.

● “The false statements by Iran’s ambassador to Armenia, Mehdi Sobhani, regarding the Western Azerbaijan Community contradict Iran’s official position and are a provocation aimed at undermining Azerbaijani-Iranian relations,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Aykhan Hajizade. His comments were in response to Sobhani’s remarks at a press conference in Yerevan, where the ambassador criticized a recent resolution by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) affirming the right of Azerbaijanis to return to their native lands in Armenia from which they were expelled in the early 1990s. Sobhani claimed the resolution contained clear territorial claims by Azerbaijan against Armenia. He also stated that Iran’s position on Armenia remains unchanged: full support for its territorial integrity. “We advise self-proclaimed groups like the Western Azerbaijan Community not to interfere in the peace process in the region,” Sobhani said. Hajizade urged the ambassador to read the OIC resolution carefully. “The document calls for the restoration of the fundamental rights of Azerbaijani refugees. It contains no territorial claims. The ambassador’s remarks, aimed at defending Armenia’s interests, contradict Iran’s official stance, which supported the resolution at the ministerial level along with 57 other OIC member states in Istanbul,” Hajizade said. Read more about the resolution here

● The family of Haji Valiyev, the detained head of the “Young Veterans” organization, alleges he was tortured in custody and suffered a head injury. He was arrested in April on weapons-related hooliganism charges, which he denies. The group suspended its work following his arrest.

●  In Aghdam District (near Karabakh, reclaimed by Azerbaijan in the 2020 war), a local police officer was seriously injured after stepping on an anti-personnel mine. His right leg was partially amputated, according to the interior ministry.

Tensions between #Azerbaijan and #Russia have sharply escalated again after a Russian special forces unit stormed the “Caspian” café in Yekaterinburg, owned by the Safarov family – ethnic Azerbaijanis – and carried out violent raids in their homes.

Two members of the family,… pic.twitter.com/C7ivxdjm7Y

— JAMnews (@JAMnewsCaucasus) June 29, 2025

●  French President Emmanuel Macron published a post in Armenian about his phone call with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. One part drew particular attention in Armenia, where Macron expressed “France’s solidarity in response to attempts to destabilize democracy in Armenia.” In response, the opposition accused France of supporting the emergence of an authoritarian system in the country. “In Armenia, political forces are fighting for their identity, the rights of the people, and real democracy. There is no need to harm Armenian–French friendship by using democracy as a pretext to legitimize dictatorship,” said Ishkhan Saghatelyan, an MP from the opposition “Armenia” parliamentary faction.

●  EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas is visiting Yerevan. During a meeting with the Armenian president, she stated: “We consider close EU–Armenia cooperation important and are interested in establishing lasting peace in your region.” She also visited the EU Mission’s headquarters in Yeghegnadzor.

●  Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan will not attend the CSTO Council of Foreign Ministers meeting taking place today in Kyrgyzstan, according to an official ministry statement.

●  Armenians living in Brussels held a protest outside the Armenian Embassy in Belgium. “Freedom of speech and justice have died in Armenia,” said the demonstrators, who support the church in its standoff with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Armenian authorities have launched searches and criminal cases against several clergy members, claiming to have prevented a coup attempt and citing a “Russian link” in the church’s actions. Read more here

●  Former Russian MP Franz Klintsevich was denied entry into Armenia. Upon arriving on a private visit, he was stopped at Yerevan’s Zvartnots Airport and told after a document check that he had to return to Russia.

Top stories in Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia from 23-27 June, 2025