As the Russian-Ukrainian conflict drags on without any breakthrough, diplomatic endeavors have begun shifting from grand peace congresses to smaller forums. The recent exchanges facilitated by the U.S. and the UAE, as well as increased attempts by Türkiye to resume talks, underscore the reality of today's fragmented international system, where it is often medium-sized powers rather than superpowers that facilitate dialogue.

In addition, years of unsuccessful or stagnant attempts, from the Minsk process to various informal talks, have shown that established forms of mediation fail to yield sustainable results within this particular conflict.

Against this backdrop, attention is slowly shifting toward alternative venues and intermediaries, states that combine neutrality, access, and trust.

It is in this evolving diplomatic context that Azerbaijan is increasingly being discussed as a potential platform for dialogue.

Speaking to AzerNEWS, Athar Mahmood, an independent author, international relations analyst, and regional geopolitics expert, as well as a lecturer and center director at Azerbaijan University of Languages, shared his perspective on why Baku could play a meaningful role in facilitating future negotiations.

"Wars usually begin on the battlefield, but they end around a negotiating table. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has reshaped Europe’s security architecture, is no exception. As the search for outcomes on the battlefield continues, the question of where diplomatic off-ramps might emerge becomes increasingly urgent. The answer is often sought in the capitals of major powers, yet sometimes the most suitable venue is a quieter, more pragmatic, and more trusted regional actor. In the........

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