Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated that the Russian Foreign Ministry is working to repatriate 11 Russian citizens who were sentenced to actual prison terms in Azerbaijan.
She said the Foreign Ministry is coordinating with relevant authorities on this matter; meanwhile, the Russian Embassy in Baku has maintained continuous contact with these Russian citizens and their families, while also conducting negotiations with Azerbaijani officials.
Zakharova emphasized, "Our side stresses that the prompt release of our citizens would be a crucial step toward fully normalizing bilateral relations and advancing cooperation between the two countries." She expressed hope that these Russian nationals could "return home soon."
On July 1, 2025, Russian security forces apprehended Azerbaijani expatriates in Yekaterinburg, triggering a clash that resulted in two deaths, thereby worsening Russia-Azerbaijan relations. These 11 individuals were detained in Baku at that time.
In 2026, the aforementioned individuals were sentenced to actual prison terms by local courts.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868482076109824/
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