In an interview with Izvestia newspaper, Russia's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Mikhail Yevdokimov, highlighted several key points regarding regional infrastructure and resolving the Karabakh conflict.

Firstly, Ambassador Yevdokimov noted that Armenia's delay in negotiations on creating a transport corridor between mainland Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan has prompted alternative arrangements, such as the agreement between Baku and Tehran for a railway passing through Iran. He emphasized the importance of a stable transport route for Azerbaijan, especially considering past disruptions during the first Karabakh War. "Russia had offered to restore the route quickly but encountered delays from the Armenian side," he added.

Ambassador Yevdokimov declared the Karabakh issue closed, stating that Russia had attempted to resolve it peacefully over the years. However, he acknowledged that the situation changed with the anti-terror operation in September, effectively closing that chapter. He expressed Russia's readiness to support negotiations for a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Regarding peace negotiations, Yevdokimov mentioned the exchange of peace treaty drafts between Baku and Yerevan, noting that Azerbaijan's proposals were justified and standard for peace agreements. He indicated Russia's willingness to assist in presenting the Moscow platform and providing expertise and advice if necessary.

Lastly, Ambassador Yevdokimov discussed the dates of the next round of negotiations concerning Russian peacekeepers stationed in Karabakh. He highlighted the changing role of Russian peacekeepers after Baku regained control of the region, stating that they now patrol alongside Azerbaijani forces, safeguarding buildings and cultural structures. The negotiations aim to address the future of the Russian peacekeeping contingent, whose mandate expires in 2025.