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Congressmen Cohen and Aderholt Condemn Attack on Protesters by Azerbaijani Security in D.C.

February 25, 2026

Azerbaijan Caucus Co-Chairmen call for respect for democratic principles

WASHINGTON -- Congressmen Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Robert Aderholt (AL-4), co-chairs of the Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus, released the following statement in response to attacks on protesters in Washington, D.C. on Friday:

“We are very concerned with reports and videos we’ve seen of attacks on protesters outside the Waldorf Astoria by Azerbaijani security personnel on Friday. The Constitution of the United States protects peaceful protest, provided it does not interfere with normal activities, and there is no indication that was the case here. As guests of the United States, we expect Azerbaijani officials to respect American democratic principles such as the rights of free speech and free assembly. As this situation develops, we call for a full investigation into the incident and ask Azerbaijani officials to refrain from similar actions in the future.”

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