Escalating Tensions in Eurasia: Azerbaijan-Armenia Border Dispute, Far-Right Rise in France, and Militant Attacks in Dagestan

Escalating tensions in Eurasia have brought renewed focus on the ongoing border disputes between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The recent demarcation of a section of the northwestern border has reignited tensions, with Azerbaijan alleging multiple ceasefire violations, particularly in the direction of the Nakhchivan exclave and the Kalbajar region.

Armenia, on the other hand, has refuted these claims and proposed the establishment of a joint investigative body to address alleged breaches of ceasefire. Amidst the tensions, both countries have exchanged peace treaty proposals, with Azerbaijan pushing for changes to Armenia’s constitution, specifically regarding references to Artsakh.

In the midst of these developments, Armenia has also been facing internal turmoil, with demonstrations against the recent peace agreement with Azerbaijan. While the frequency of protests has decreased significantly, sporadic rallies, often led by figures like Tavush cleric Galstanyan, continue to take place, primarily in Yerevan.

Meanwhile, in France, the rise of the far-right National Rally party has set off a wave of demonstrations against racism and the far-right. President Macron dissolved the National Assembly following the party’s gains, calling for early legislative elections. The country has witnessed significant unrest, with clashes reported in various cities.

The aftermath of the National Rally’s success in the European elections has also seen an uptick in far-right violence in France. Members of the banned Groupe Union Defence engaged in several violent attacks in Paris and other cities, indicating a concerning trend of radical far-right activity.

In Russia’s North Caucasus republic of Dagestan, a devastating attack by suspected Islamist militants targeted Orthodox churches, synagogues, and police outposts. The assaults resulted in civilian casualties and a significant loss of life among security forces. The region is now on high alert as authorities investigate the perpetrators and their potential connections.

On the Ukrainian-Russian border, cross-border drone strikes have intensified, with both sides engaging in targeted attacks. Ukraine‘s expanded air campaign has aimed at Russian military facilities, while Russia has struck back, leading to escalating tensions and significant damage to infrastructure.

As the conflict in Ukraine persists, both Russian and Ukrainian forces continue to battle for control of strategic locations. While Russian troops have encountered resistance in various regions, the overall situation remains volatile, with the targeting of energy infrastructure adding an additional layer of complexity to the conflict.