Russian missile strike on SOCAR base in Odessa is part of Moscow's pressure policy on Baku

The Russian attack on the oil depot of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), located in the Odessa region of Ukraine, is part of an intensifying policy of pressure on Baku in recent months.

This was stated to Report by the chief consultant of the Center for Analysis of International Relations (CAIR) Metin Mammadli.

He noted that the attack carried out by "Shahed" drones cannot be considered accidental: "This is a step specifically directed against Azerbaijan. This is part of Russia's pressure policy, which has intensified in recent months against our country."

The expert emphasized that through this, Russia is demonstrating its concern about Azerbaijan's independent foreign policy, including in the energy sector.

"In recent months, Russia has consistently been taking certain steps directed against Azerbaijan. This ultimately leads to tension in relations between the two countries and the emergence of serious problems. However, it must be understood that the pressure being exerted, in whatever form it may be, will not yield results. Azerbaijan is firm and resolute in its position. Our country's policy is not directed against any country, but is based exclusively on the realization of national interests. Victorious Azerbaijan is strong and right. Regardless of territorial size, no state can talk to Azerbaijan in the language of threats, and the sooner the ruling circles in Russia understand this, the better it will be for themselves," he added.

Recall that on the night of August 8, the Russian Armed Forces attacked the SOCAR oil depot located in the Odessa region of Ukraine with "Shaheds." The UAV strikes caused a fire and damaged a pipeline that was transporting diesel fuel. As a result of the strikes, four people were seriously injured.