Azerbaijan summons Russian envoy over 'provocative' media statements

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry on Tuesday summoned Russian Ambassador Mikhail Yevdokimov to protest a series of "provocative, insulting and threatening" statements appearing in Moscow's media and information space that targeted Baku and its leadership.

Specific programs cited

During the meeting, Yevdokimov's attention was drawn to specific broadcasts, including statements made last week within the framework of the "Chistota Ponimaniya" project, the ministry said. It noted that an August 7 program on Sputnik radio had advanced absurd claims regarding the inclusion of Azerbaijani leaders in "Russia's list of terrorists and extremists," and that provocative views were aired on the Spas TV channel on August 16.

Interference condemned

The ministry noted that discussions about possible interference in Azerbaijan's internal political processes, as well as calls for physical violence against the country and its leadership, were "unacceptable." It added that despite repeated calls by Baku to counter such activities and discussions of the issue at various political levels, the continuation of such rhetoric in an increasingly harsh form was a "cause for serious concern."

Urgent action sought

The ministry stated that Baku expects Moscow to take urgent steps to halt the hostile media campaign. "During the meeting, our expectation to take urgent and effective measures to end the provocations, threats, and violent rhetoric against Azerbaijan in the information and media space was once again conveyed to the Russian side," it added. Ambassador Mikhail Yevdokimov was summoned to the Foreign Ministry in Baku on Tuesday to receive the formal protest.