This week saw significant developments, including the sentencing of Azerbaijani activist Famil Khalilov, large-scale staff cuts at USAID, and ongoing tensions between Russia and Azerbaijan over the closure of the “Russian House” in Baku.
Famil Khalilov’s Conditional Sentence: Legal Victory Amid Controversy
On February 6, 2025, the Baku Serious Crimes Court delivered a verdict for public activist Famil Khalilov. The court sentenced Khalilov, who is a first-group disabled person and suffers from paralysis in both arms, to three years of conditional imprisonment, with a probation period of two years.
Khalilov was accused under Article 234.1-1 of the Criminal Code (smuggling drugs without the intent to sell), with the prosecution claiming that 13 grams of methamphetamine were found on him during his arrest on May 2, 2024. However, the court reduced the charges, removing the selling aspect of the indictment.
Despite his lawyer’s insistence on his innocence and calls for acquittal, the court upheld the conditional sentence, which Khalilov intends to appeal. He maintains that the charges are fabricated due to his outspoken criticism of the government.
USAID to Lay Off Over 10,000 Workers: Only 611 to Remain
A major restructuring announcement from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has sent shockwaves through the global humanitarian community. Following President Donald Trump’s administration and reforms driven by his allies, USAID revealed that it will lay off more than 10,000 employees worldwide, leaving only 611 workers in place.
Critics, including former USAID chief Brian Atwood, have condemned the move, calling it “unacceptable” and warning that the cuts could severely hamper the agency’s ability to save millions of lives globally. The restructuring is part of a broader reorganization spearheaded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who has been a close ally of the administration.
This decision affects various divisions, including minimal staff retention in critical areas such as Africa and Asia. The drastic measure comes amid global concerns over the future of international aid.
Russia and Azerbaijan Continue Diplomatic Tensions Over “Russian House”
Meanwhile, the diplomatic dispute between Russia and Azerbaijan over the closure of the “Russian House” in Baku remains unresolved. Russia has strongly protested the move, with officials suggesting that the issue may be raised between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev during upcoming high-level discussions.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mariya Zakhrova voiced hope for a positive resolution, insisting that the allegations against the cultural center, including claims of espionage, are “absurd.” Moscow is pushing for the restoration of the registration of the “Russian House,” calling the closure a misunderstanding that could be solved through dialogue.
On the other hand, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains firm, stating that the “Russian House” is not legally registered and has violated local laws. The conflict continues to strain diplomatic relations between the two nations.
