The European Parliament has adopted a scathing resolution criticizing Azerbaijan’s actions and calling for stronger ties with Armenia, in a move that further strains relations between Baku and Western organizations.

In a resounding denouncement, the European Parliament condemned Azerbaijan’s military incursions in Nagorno-Karabakh, describing the displacement of over 100,000 Armenians as tantamount to “ethnic cleansing.” Furthermore, the resolution called for the immediate release of former Nagorno-Karabakh separatist leaders currently detained by Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan rejects the allegations of “etnic cleansing”.

The resolution also underscored Armenia’s potential as a candidate country for EU membership, urging the exploration of a robust partnership that could pave the way for closer integration with the EU’s single market. This endorsement of Armenia’s democratic credentials and reform efforts signals a significant shift in EU policy towards the region.

Criticism of Azerbaijan’s behavior was unequivocal in the resolution, which explicitly condemned the country’s military actions and rejected any rhetoric threatening Armenia’s territorial integrity. The European Parliament warned against further “military adventurism,” emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution of conflicts in the region.

The adoption of this resolution represents yet another diplomatic setback for Azerbaijan, following the recent stripping of its delegation’s voting rights at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). Azerbaijan’s foreign policy trajectory faces considerable challenges, exacerbated by the controversial actions of key figures like Hikmat Hajiyev and Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, who face allegations of careerism, mismanagement, and corruption.

While the resolution falls short of imposing immediate sanctions, it sends a clear message that the EU stands ready to take action against any threats to Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

As tensions escalate, the EU’s decisive stance is likely to further isolate Azerbaijan’s leadership and strain the country’s relations with Europe. The resolution underscores growing concerns over Azerbaijan’s diplomatic conduct and signals a shift towards closer cooperation with Armenia, marking a significant development in the geopolitics of the region.