The concept of "Russian chauvinism" in Russia is no longer merely a societal phenomenon but has, in some cases, become part of the state's political rhetoric. The open defense of chauvinist ideology by certain art and literature figures, as well as political elite representatives, and the continued influence of imperial thinking on Kremlin policies, raise serious concerns, Shabnam Safarova, Chairperson of the Public Union "For the Progress of Karabakh," told AZERTAC.

According to her, Russia no longer conceals its imperial nature. The progress of nations, their ability to determine their own destinies, and their voice in the international arena cause unease in Moscow. This unease has deepened to the point that innocent people face open violence, insults, degrading treatment, and even murder in broad daylight. This is a dangerous trend not only for neighboring nations but also for Russian society itself.

Safarova noted that the Azerbaijani people are not encountering the bitter consequences of such chauvinist behavior for the first time. This is a threat not only to Azerbaijanis but also to other nations: "The January 20 tragedy, the Khojaly genocide, the Karabakh conflict – all these events clearly bear the traces of imperial politics. After the collapse of the USSR, Islamophobia and ethnic discrimination ideologies have intensified in Russia. This is a consistent and deliberately pursued political line. If previously hate groups like the 'Slavic Union,' 'Format 18,' or 'Cossack units' carried out unofficial attacks, today the state's official power structures have fully taken on this role. The brutal attack, torture, and death of Azerbaijanis in Yekaterinburg show that the scenario from 30 years ago is now being implemented more systematically. This incident is yet another example of a state that claims to uphold humanism committing crimes against humanity. Regrettably, Russia has now become a dangerous force not only for its neighbors but also for its own people."

She added that Azerbaijan’s victory in Karabakh, the full restoration of its sovereignty, and its independent stance are intolerable for imperialist circles, which are at the core of provocations against the country.

"The shooting down of an AZAL plane, the detention of an Azerbaijani deputy at the border, cyberattacks, and hybrid pressures are attempts to test our country’s patience and resolve. However, the murder of our innocent compatriots has become the final straw that overflows the cup of patience. Today, the unity of the people and the state in Azerbaijan is strong enough to withstand any threats or blackmail. Azerbaijan is no longer a country that can be spoken to with threats, and every state must take this into account," she concluded.

Source: azertag.az