Weekly Brief on the Military Situation in South Caucasus Countries (January 27 – February 2)
Armenia
Armenian Ministry of Defense Addresses Circulation of Misleading Film Depicting Soldiers
On January 31, the Armenian Ministry of Defense reported that a fragment of a film, released years ago, has been circulating on social media, depicting inappropriate scenes involving soldiers that misrepresent the reality and values of the Armenian Army.
The Ministry emphasized that such films and series do not accurately reflect the interpersonal relationships or character of the armed forces. Furthermore, they distort the behavior of Armenian officers and servicemen, thereby damaging their honor and reputation. The Ministry of Defense urged creative teams, organizations, and individuals to refrain from producing and disseminating content that undermines the image of the army.
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan Hosts Saudi Delegation Led by General Al-Ruwaili for Military Talks
On January 28, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense reported that Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, received a delegation led by General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, Chief of the General Staff of Saudi Arabia.
During the official visit, Minister Hasanov welcomed the Saudi delegation and expressed his appreciation for their visit, emphasizing the strong ties of friendship and brotherhood between Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia. He reiterated Azerbaijan’s commitment to fostering these relations.
General Al-Ruwaili thanked Azerbaijan for its hospitality and stressed the importance of such visits in enhancing military cooperation. Both sides discussed the current status and future prospects of collaboration in military, military-technical, and military-educational fields. They also exchanged views on regional security issues.
Following an official welcoming ceremony at the General Staff, the Saudi delegation participated in a ceremonial procession before the guard of honor, with both nations' anthems performed. As part of the protocol, General Al-Ruwaili signed the Book of Honor.
Colonel General Karim Valiyev, First Deputy Minister of Defense and Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, also met with the Saudi delegation. Both sides expressed confidence in the continued growth of cooperation based on mutual trust and support. They emphasized the importance of experience exchange and further expansion of military collaboration.
During the visit, the delegation was briefed on the reforms implemented in the Azerbaijan Army. They were provided with insights into recent innovations within the army, the Second Karabakh War that led to Azerbaijan’s victory, and other successful military operations. Additionally, the Saudi representatives received detailed information about Azerbaijan’s military control points and had their questions addressed.
Azerbaijan Hosts Bahraini Defense Chief Field Marshal Al Khalifa for Bilateral Talks
On January 30, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov met with Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), during his official visit to Azerbaijan.
Minister Hasanov welcomed Field Marshal Al Khalifa and expressed his appreciation for the visit. He also thanked the Kingdom of Bahrain for its humanitarian aid and support during Azerbaijan’s 44-day Patriotic War, which ended in Azerbaijan’s victory.
Field Marshal Al Khalifa, in turn, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted the importance of such visits in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Azerbaijani Military Excels at "Winter Exercise 2025" in Türkiye
On January 31, Azerbaijani military personnel participated in the international "Winter Exercise 2025" in Kars, Türkiye.
The exercise, which included over 12,000 servicemen from various countries, aimed to enhance interoperability between units, assess combat readiness, improve fire control, conduct search and rescue operations, and provide combat support.
Azerbaijani forces successfully executed missions to neutralize enemy shelters, equipment, and personnel of illegal armed formations using artillery, armored vehicles, combat aircraft, and helicopters. Tactical airborne units operated effectively in challenging mountainous terrain and adverse weather conditions, further showcasing Azerbaijan’s military capabilities.
Georgia
Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili Visits National Defence Academy and Infantry Brigade
On January 29, Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili, a controversial political figure, visited the David Agmashenebeli National Defence Academy and the 1st Infantry Brigade of the Eastern Command of the Defence Forces.
At both locations, the Supreme Commander of the Defence Forces was welcomed by Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Irakli Chikovani, Commander of the Defence Forces Major General Giorgi Matiashvili, and other senior officials.
During his visit to the National Defence Academy, President Kavelashvili was introduced to the institution’s structure, goals, and objectives by Rector Brigadier General Mamia Balakhadze. He toured various facilities, including cadet barracks, classrooms, the infirmary, recreational and sports areas, and the academy’s museum, where he signed the guest book.
Later, the President visited the 1st Infantry Brigade, where he was briefed on the unit's operations by Brigadier General Roland Dzneladze, Commander of the East, and Colonel Zaza Shalamberidze, Brigade Commander. Kavelashvili also toured the brigade’s infrastructure and inspected the 11th Battalion.