Azerbaijan Holds Air Defense Exercises, Heightening Tensions in the Region Amid Ongoing Aggression
As Azerbaijan heightens tensions with Armenia, Azerbaijan is also conducting significant air defense exercises. The Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan reported that combat crews of the S-300 'Favorit' anti-aircraft missile complexes were recently placed on alert during classes, accomplishing tasks ranging from preparing equipment for combat to overcoming simulated enemy missile strikes.
These exercises show Azerbaijan's ongoing aggression.
Simultaneously, reports indicate that Azerbaijan is actively procuring drones and military equipment from abroad. Tigran Balayan, Armenia's Ambassador to the EU, disclosed this information to Brussels Signal, noting suspected munitions purchases arriving on military flights from countries such as Israel and Turkey. Balayan emphasized that a significant portion of Azerbaijani military hardware, estimated at 60 to 70 percent, originates from Israel and Turkey.
Additionally, Balayan highlighted increased military flights from Serbia, signaling an agreement to sell sophisticated artillery equipment to Azerbaijan. Balayan expressed concerns about Azerbaijan's continuous military build-up despite international calls for restraint.
The recent Azeri attack in the Syunik province, resulting in the death of four Armenian troops, has raised further concerns. Ambassador Balayan suggested that the attack could be a response to Armenia's growing cooperation with the European Union, as it occurred just hours before an EU-Armenia Partnership Council meeting.
Characterizing the attack as a "challenge" to EU "authority" in the region, Balayan emphasized that Azerbaijan seems unwilling to seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict with Armenia. Despite warnings and calls for restraint, he noted that Azerbaijan persists in aggressive rhetoric, actions, and provocations, indicating a troubling continuation of hostilities in the region. The situation underscores the complexity of regional dynamics and the need for diplomatic efforts to promote lasting peace and stability.
