Baku Confirms Secret Backchannel Talks Between German and Russian Figures

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has confirmed that a series of covert meetings between former German and Russian officials took place in Baku, citing flight records as definitive proof. These clandestine encounters, allegedly designed to sway Berlin’s stance on the Ukraine conflict toward Moscow’s interests, have triggered alarm within European security circles.

Editorial·July 21, 2026·reads: 896

Baku Confirms Secret Backchannel Talks Between German and Russian Figures

The gatherings, first brought to light by investigations from Die Zeit and ARD, focused on the normalization of bilateral relations once the war in Ukraine concludes. Russian participants reportedly pushed for a resolution strictly adhering to the Kremlin’s terms, while German security agencies now view the summits as a calculated Russian influence operation aimed at fracturing EU policy unity.

Despite Azerbaijan's official stance of neutrality and its provision of humanitarian aid to Kyiv, the country’s regional balancing act is under pressure. Aliyev acknowledged the arrival of these influential figures on flights throughout July, noting that he sought immediate clarification regarding the purpose of their presence. The revelation underscores the fragility of European diplomatic cohesion as Moscow continues to seek unofficial channels to bypass formal sanctions and political isolation.