The primary objective officially declared by the Russian Federation upon initiating the Russo-Ukrainian war is the demilitarization and denazification of Ukraine. Before that former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev claimed in an article that the West harbors an anti-Russian sentiment and aims to transform Ukraine into an “anti-Russia.”
The success of Russia in achieving the stated goal depends on various factors. It is essential to state that Russia's demands are not unprecedented; rather, they align with historical patterns. Rather than delving extensively into historical instances, let's focus on recent cases to draw parallels.
Following World War I, the Allies adopted a demilitarization policy in Germany, particularly emphasized by France. In 1918, Germany capitulated, committing, at France's behest, to a war reparations of 132 billion gold marks. However, after paying only the initial billion, Germany experienced a significant devaluation of the mark, a 1.475-fold increase marking just the onset of economic challenges.
Compelled by unprecedented restrictions, Germany drastically reduced army personnel, military production, and the variety of weapons. Subsequently, France contemplated the dismemberment of Germany, proposing its division into multiple states, with Alsace and Lorraine being exceptions as they were returned to France. The outcome is well-known: the emergence of Hitler and National Socialism.
In the aftermath of World War II, this policy evolved with the introduction of a new element —demilitarization coupled with denationalization — which the victorious nations implemented against Japan as well.
We seem to have gained insight into demilitarization, but what about denationalization? It encompasses changes in educational materials, educational reforms, and revisions of spiritual and cultural values, national propaganda, and more. This entails relegating heroic episodes of history and once-revered figures, sources of pride for generations, to the annals of the past. It involves tightening legislation against nationalist thoughts, studies, and propaganda. Those interested can explore numerous resources elucidating the concepts inherent in these policies.
Many aspects described, encapsulated by the terms "demilitarization" and "denationalization," are notably reminiscent of the policies implemented by the government of the Republic of Armenia. While we lack concrete data affirming that Armenia has capitulated to Azerbaijan, the current policies strongly suggest it. Signs point towards potential agreements made by Armenia with Azerbaijan.
It shouldn't come as a surprise if, in the future, evidence emerges of Armenia’s undertaking specific commitments toward Azerbaijan. Otherwise, how do we justify the dismantling of the army, the bolstering of the police force, the breakdown of traditional institutions, the disparagement of historical heroes, the distortion of history, and the propagation of defeatism through textbooks and educational system reforms? These processes, observed almost daily, align with a systematic effort to weaken the state and erode statehood. Step by step, Azerbaijan places before us demands akin to those once imposed on Germany and Japan.