Aliyev and Zelensky forge defense ties
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has affirmed Baku's support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and proposed joint weapons production to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to The Moscow Times.
Meeting on Saturday in the Azerbaijani city of Gabala, the two leaders committed to mutual backing in international forums. Aliyev highlighted the rapid development of both nations' defense industries, noting great possibilities for a joint Ukrainian-Azerbaijani manufacturing venture.
Bilateral agreements signed
Zelensky confirmed the signing of six cooperation documents spanning multiple sectors. He emphasized the defense industry's priority on Telegram, stating that the partnership will continue to deepen.
Joint arms production, Zelensky added, could stabilize the region and serve as a deterrent against potential aggressors. Beyond defense, the leaders also discussed expanding collaboration in energy, agriculture, and humanitarian projects.
Trilateral peace talks proposed
Zelensky expressed Kyiv's readiness to hold trilateral peace negotiations with the US and Russia in Azerbaijan, provided Moscow chooses diplomacy. He emphasized the importance of Russia finding the strength to end its "unjust war."
Acknowledging the mediation role of international partners, the Ukrainian president referenced previous negotiation efforts held in Turkey and Switzerland.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
