BETWEEN ALLY AND THREAT։ CONSTRUCTING RUSSIA IN AZERBAIJAN’S OFFICIAL RHETORIC

Abstract

Following the 44-day war of 2020, Azerbaijan has been consistently reshaping its role and position in international politics. In this context, its relations with regional powers, primarily Russia, are of particular interest. This study examines how Azerbaijan’s official rhetoric constructs and shapes the narrative around the perception of Russia. The research focuses on how Baku’s official discourse, operating within the realities of 2020-2025, balances the concurrent and competing perceptions of Russia as both a “threat” and an “ally”.

The research demonstrates that Azerbaijan employs a model of “symmetric partnership”, where the allied relationship does not imply political dependence. Instead, it serves to advance economic and security interests while maintaining ample room for geopolitical maneuvering.