Russian propagandist Solovyov calls for expanding “special military operations” beyond Ukraine to Central Asia and Armenia

“We need to formulate our goals and objectives very clearly. We must say it openly – the games are over. Neither international law nor the international order matters to us. If it was necessary to launch a special military operation on Ukrainian territory for the sake of our national security, then based on the same reasoning, why should we not be able to launch special military operations in other territories within our zone of influence as well?” he said.

Solovyov made these remarks on the Solovyov Live program. In his view, Russia should focus on the territories of the so-called “near abroad” as a priority direction of its foreign policy. He also stressed that developments in Armenia are far more painful for Moscow than events unfolding in Venezuela, emphasizing that losing Armenia would be an enormous problem for Russia.

In addition, Solovyov referred to Central Asia as “our Asia” and claimed that potential problems in the region would pose a serious threat to Russia’s national security. In his speech, the chauvinist urged the Russian leadership to disregard issues of international law and the international order, reiterating that “the game is over.”

“We need to shape our national doctrine and clearly state: how far does our zone of influence extend? Then everything will be clear. Everything will be understandable. We need to stop ‘casting pearls before swine’ and openly say that we do not care what Europe thinks,” Solovyov said.

He also emphasized that Russia should “stop showing mercy toward Ukrainians.” The journalist claimed that “if harsh measures had been taken already in the first weeks of the war, the conflict would have ended faster and with fewer losses.”

Reactions against Solovyov’s statement

Solovyov’s remarks have sparked strong reactions in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Local officials and public figures have called for a firm response.

Professor Sherzodkhon Qudratkhuja, rector of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications, described the comments as “unrestrained propaganda.” He said:

“Solovyov openly stated what he previously tried to conceal: international law is irrelevant, sovereignty is merely a piece of paper, and other states can be labeled as ‘territories under influence.’ The phrase ‘our Asia’ is pure colonial rhetoric.”

Social activist Aziza Umarova suggested reviving the film “The Fields Inherited from My Father” in response to Solovyov’s statements. She argued that the film, which was banned from public screenings since 1997, vividly portrays historical and cultural identity and could help viewers contextualize such propaganda.

Economist Otabek Bakirov likened Solovyov’s remarks to “taking revenge on peaceful people for the actions of aggressors,” calling on Central Asian states to respond collectively with official statements.

Former lawmaker and adviser to the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change Rasul Kusherbaev warned that Solovyov’s speech constituted an open threat to Central Asian countries and urged the Uzbek Ministry of Foreign Affairs to respond firmly.

Journalist Ilyos Safarov noted that the remarks were not mere hype but reflected “the most aggressive and dangerous strands of Russian propaganda,” proposing that Russia’s commentators promoting hostile narratives be declared persona non grata in Uzbekistan.

Nikita Makarenko, a journalist and civic activist, emphasized that Solovyov’s statements are exceptional to Russia and that no other country’s official media openly threatens Uzbekistan’s sovereignty. He cited Azerbaijan as a model for countering Russian propaganda and urged the Uzbek public, particularly the Russian-speaking population, to unite around the idea of a peaceful, sovereign Uzbekistan, independent from colonial influence.