Proxy power play continues in Nagorno-Karabakh
Ethnic-religious nationalism is not the only factor behind hostilities between Azerbaijan and Armenia, with Russia and Turkey lurking in the wings
Fierce clashes continue between Azerbaijan (backed by Turkey) and Russia’s ally Armenia over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Although UN Security Council members France, Russia and the US (as well as India) are calling for an immediate ceasefire, there is no indication that the conflict in the energy-rich Caucasus will end any time soon.
For Baku, capturing at least some districts of Nagorno-Karabakh – internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, but a de facto independent state with an Armenian ethnic majority – seems to be a top priority in the latest surge in fighting that erupted on 27 September.
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