Analysis
Democratic Security
How Post-Orbán Hungary Could Reshape the Western Balkans
22 May 2026
The deepening political, economic and military ties between Turkey and Azerbaijan as well as mutual grassroots sentiments between Turks and Azerbaijanis suggest a radical change in Baku’s foreign policy. Is this the end of the Caspian nation’s equidistance to regional powers and blocs?
“It is no secret that Turkey is not only our friend and partner but a brotherly country. We support and will support Turkey without any hesitation in all matters… We have the support of our Turkish brothers in all matters and we also support them in all matters, including their research in the Eastern Mediterranean…”
These were the words of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, voiced to the Greek ambassador upon receiving the latter’s credentials on 2 September 2020.
Although the Greek media reacted very negatively to the statement, Aliyev’s key message was probably addressed to multiple capitals and not only Athens. It might also herald a new chapter in the Caspian nation’s foreign policy.