«Russia's invasion of Ukraine is met with a united response»

A little more than one month ago, Russia invaded Ukraine. Since then, despite the massive forces fielded by Russia, Ukraine has resisted courageously. Russian armed forces are besieging Mariupol, litterally starving the city’s civilian population. But Ukraine remains unbowed and is fighting for its existence as a sovereign and independent state.

Claiming that Ukraine is a part of the Russian nation, Moscow has unleashed and unprovoked war that necessarily has a strong resonance in all the countries that acquired their independence from Russia and the Soviet Union 30 years ago. The pattern of Russia’s efforts to redefine borders through military operations has become a familiar one, after the war on Georgia in 2008, the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the encroachment in the Donbass. In essence, we are witnessing the resurgence of Russia’s imperial aspirations, which can only worry the countries of the Southern Caucasus and of Central Asia.

Moscow clearly expected Ukraine to accept its dominance without putting up a fight («Нравится, не нравится - терпи, моя красавица») but was proven wrong. Neither did Moscow expect the EU, and the West collectively, to react with speed, determination, strength and unity. Russia overestimated its strength and underestimated the determination of the countries that stand for upholding international law and opposing the use of force against free nations.

As the effects of international sanctions gradually grind down its economy, Russia will undoubtedly pay a high price for the invasion of Ukraine. There should be no doubt about this : economic sanctions can be a very powerful tool. They will increase relentlessly until the crisis is resolved and their implementation will be monitored stringently and globally.

France and Azerbaijan have remained in close contact at the highest level from the beginning of the conflict. Both countries have extended medical and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Azerbaijan’s efforts to achieve a cease-fire and end the war are greatly appreciated. More can be done together and with the EU.

As France’s ninth Ambassador to the Republic of Azerbaijan since the country restored its independence in 1991, I feel certain that this war waged by Russia will be a reminder of the importance of Azerbaijan retaining a strong and independent foreign policy, working closely with all partners that respect international law, not least with the European Union.

And, just as I hope to see the war in Ukraine stop, I wish to see peace restored in the Southern Caucasus and am convinced that the dynamics in favour of a peace negotiation between Azerbaijan and Armenia need to be sustained and supported. There is little doubt that both countries have much to gain from it.