Russia is a Caucasian power and is closely connected with the processes taking place in the region, therefore the South Caucasus is vitally important for it. Mikhail Kalugin, Director of the Fourth CIS Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Russia, stated this in an interview with TASS.

“Our interests stem from the fact that Russia is not just a neighbor, but itself is a Caucasian power. We are connected by the closest historical and cultural ties with all the states of the region. Allied relations have been established with four of the five republics [in the South Caucasus]. For each country in the South Caucasus, Russia is the main or one of the main trading partners. Important transport arteries for us pass through the region. How the processes will develop on the other side of the mountain range also largely depends on the situation in the North Caucasus. In short, the South Caucasus is vitally important for us,” the Russian diplomat said.

According to him, Russia’s fundamental interest is the development of the region, the discovery of its economic potential, and the creation of a “zone of stability and peace” there. “What contributes to the prosperity of the region also contributes to the prosperity of Russia. This is the simple logic of our actions,” Kalugin emphasized. “Following this, we consistently speak out against armed conflicts in the region, support the lifting of blockades, and actively work towards building a common architecture of regional connectivity so that each country can take advantage of the advantages of its geographical location. We want the economy of the South Caucasus to breathe freely. This is beneficial to us.”

“That is why in 2020, Russian President Vladimir Putin made personal efforts to stop the bloodshed between Azerbaijan and Armenia. And it was then that the foundations of the peace process between Baku and Yerevan were laid. The process has already gone through several stages, but, nevertheless, it is proceeding in line with the roadmap developed based on the agreements of the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia from 2020 to 2022," the Russian MFA official noted.