Baku: The Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan has issued a strong condemnation of recent statements made by Russian TV host Vladimir Solovyov, expressing deep concern over his biased commentary regarding Azerbaijan. Solovyov's remarks were broadcast on Russia's state-run 'Rossiya 1' channel, where he demonstrated clear disrespect towards Azerbaijan, particularly in defense of his friend, Armenian-origin businessman Samvel Karapetyan, who was detained by Armenian authorities.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Solovyov's use of the term 'Artsakh' and accusations against Armenian authorities for "gifting Artsakh away" were met with outrage. His comments, suggesting that the Armenian people might face a similar fate, have been perceived as a distortion of historical facts and a display of animosity toward Azerbaijan. The Media Development Agency emphasized that Solovyov's broadcasts on the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict and the 44-day Patriotic War consistently lack objectivity and provoke strong reactions in Azerbaijan.

The agency expressed its concern over the inflammatory nature of Solovyov's remarks, which are broadcast on a state television channel in Russia. These statements are seen as counterproductive to the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Russia and contrary to the official stance of the Russian government. The Media Development Agency has called for a formal apology, condemning Solovyov's rhetoric as hate speech that violates journalistic ethics and moral principles.