A cold snap has begun in Russian-Azerbaijani relations. And already the second in a year. In these conditions, it is worth considering whether such fluctuations in the political climate are accidental or natural,

A rift has developed between Russia and Azerbaijan, which have had long political, economic and cultural ties.

Once strategic partners in the post-Soviet order, Russia and Azerbaijan are drifting into open hostility. From diplomatic snubs to deaths in custody and geopolitical realignments, ties between Moscow and Baku are under unprecedented strain.