Is Russia being squeezed out of the Caucasus?

The talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia taking place in Abu Dhabi are not just a diplomatic meeting, but a historic event that marks the end of two centuries of Russian hegemony in the South Caucasus. This time, the Kremlin has been completely sidelined from the crucial peace process in the region.

After the Treaty of Gulistan in 1813, Russia entered the Caucasus and made the region part of its empire. This control was strengthened during the Soviet era, and after independence, Moscow continued to position itself as an indispensable mediator and guarantor of security in the Caucasus. However, today history is passing its judgment: Russia's role is over.

Aliyev and Pashinyan's talks in the UAE demonstrate the growing power of Ankara, Abu Dhabi, and the Global South. In the new political climate, the Caucasus states are moving away from Russia and toward other areas of cooperation. While Armenia is moving closer to the United States and Europe, Azerbaijan is relying on the Turkic world and reliable regional allies.

Undoubtedly, this process should also be an important lesson for Uzbekistan. Because we were also part of the Russian Empire in history. Today's geopolitical changes in the Caucasus also signal to Central Asia: it is time to protect our territorial interests, pursue an independent foreign policy, and form new alliances.

The displacement of Russia is not only a political but also an ideological crisis. It is the end of the post-Soviet space and the beginning of the renaissance of the Turkic world.