In an interview broadcast on December 18, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev sharply criticized French President Emmanuel Macron, the Biden administration, and foreign-funded NGOs for their roles in Georgia and the South Caucasus. Speaking with Dmitry Kiselyov, a Russian propagandist and Director General of Russia Today, Aliyev discussed Georgia’s political stability, foreign interference, and the broader dynamics in the region.

Aliyev expressed satisfaction with the recent stabilization of Georgia, stating: “Georgia is our most important partner and close friend. Destabilization in Georgia is as harmful for Azerbaijan as it is for Georgia.” He emphasized Azerbaijan’s efforts to support Georgia’s political stability and development.

Aliyev denounced the role of foreign-funded NGOs in Georgia, claiming that Western-backed organizations have destabilizing effects: "There are thousands of NGOs in Georgia funded by the West, employing tens of thousands of people." Drawing from Azerbaijan's experience, he advocated strict regulation of foreign grants and funding, noting that Azerbaijani authorities must approve any such assistance.

Aliyev linked foreign influence to intrusive aid policies, singling out USAID: "President Biden's administration will be remembered for its intrusiveness. They want to help where we say: 'Thank you, we don't need your help.'" He praised Russia's decision to ban USAID: "You did the right thing."

Aliyev accused Macron of meddling in Georgia, stating: “Macron’s ears are sticking out; he is restless in his own country and has to get involved in Georgia.” He also criticized France’s colonial legacy, referring to Macron’s “colonialist” policies and calling attention to “the hideous face of French colonialism.”

Aliyev framed Georgia’s political situation as part of a larger struggle for influence in the Caucasus, noting: “The issue of Georgia is much bigger than it seems—it is a battle for the Caucasus.” He highlighted Armenia’s alignment with the West, suggesting that Armenia’s de-jure withdrawal from the CSTO is pending U.S. approval.

Aliyev defended Azerbaijan's restrictions on foreign funding of media and NGOs: "Azerbaijani media cannot be financed by foreign sources, not even by 1%. Why should they finance our media when we do not finance theirs?" He criticized outlets like Voice of America and Radio Liberty for "casting a shadow" on Azerbaijan's achievements.

Aliyev lamented that Georgia delayed implementing similar restrictions, referring to the controversial Foreign Agents’ law: “A certain time was lost in Georgia to streamline this, and when it was done, the train had already departed.”

Aliyev reiterated Azerbaijan’s independence in navigating regional dynamics, asserting: “Azerbaijan is an independent player, able to stand up for itself.” He stressed the importance of maintaining traditional Caucasian values in the ongoing “battle for the Caucasus.”