Azerbaijani analysts doubt West's ability to influence Karabakh conflict

The possibilities of the West to achieve de-escalation of tensions on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border are limited. Russia has real levers to influence the parties in conflict, political scientists in Baku believe.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that since July 12, shelling attacks have been taking place on both sides of the border of the Tovuz District of Azerbaijan and the Tavush Region of Armenia. More than 20 military servicemen fell victim to these attacks.

The West has neither real levers to affect the Karabakh conflict, nor any genuine concern about it, Zardusht Alizade, an Azerbaijani political analyst, believes. He has treated the calls of Western leaders to de-escalate the conflict as "ritual."

He has noted that, despite the fierce fighting of the past three days, "the hostilities are local in nature, and the situation cannot be considered out of control."

Khikmet Gadjizade, the head of the "Far Centre" for Political and Economic Studies, believes that in recent years, the influence of the West in the region has significantly weakened. He added that "a big war in the region is not in Russia's favour."

Azer Gasymly, a political expert, believes that the West will try to stop the warfare by diplomatic efforts and will not introduce sanctions against Azerbaijan.