Expert: Azerbaijan’s victory changed balance of power in South Caucasus and globally

“For a year after the war, Azerbaijan has set an example to the whole world in how one should love their state. The ruins of Karabakh began to transform before our very eyes, in a short time,” expert in interethnic conflicts and member of the Russian Journalists’ Union Yevgeniy Mikhailov told Report.

He noted that the rapid construction of a new airport in Azerbaijan’s Fuzuli and roads in the liberated territories turned out to be such unexpected events, both for many states and for those who have been long-time occupiers, that sometimes it seems “incredible if you don’t see all this with your own eyes. Over the year, Azerbaijan has further strengthened its army and continues to strengthen its recognized borders.”

The Russian expert noted the important role of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev both in the victory over the enemy and in efforts to restore the infrastructure of Karabakh.

“Ilham Aliyev brought the people together. The people were incredibly united. However, I would like to note that the Azerbaijani people had been waiting for this victory for 30 years and preparing themselves; they didn’t need additional incentives to get ready at such an important time for the country. And as soon as the leader called on everyone, a unanimous response from several millions of people was immediately received,” the expert said.

Mikhailov believes that Azerbaijan’s victory has radically changed the balance of power not only in the South Caucasus but also globally to some extent.

“Many powers didn’t expect to see the level of combat operations using modern tactics and weapons systems demonstrated by the Azerbaijani army. Now, before doing anything in the South Caucasus against the interests of Baku, many will think about the consequences and won’t mindlessly undermine regional security,” he added.