Bodyguards for Azerbaijani president, in town for Trump’s Board of Peace, attack protesters in DC

The Guardian World

by Joseph Gedeon in Washington

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Bodyguards accompanying Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Washington during the inaugural meeting of Donald Trump’s Board of Peace were involved in an altercation with protesters demanding the release of political prisoners in Azerbaijan. Video footage shows the bodyguards punching, kicking, and chasing demonstrators outside a Washington hotel on Thursday. The incident occurred near the motorcade of the Azerbaijani leader, who was attending the high-profile event. The protesters were advocating for the release of political prisoners, highlighting Azerbaijan’s human rights record and drawing attention to ongoing tensions between the government and its critics. Despite efforts by local authorities to manage the situation, the bodyguards’ actions led to the dispersal of the demonstrators from the area near the hotel where the motorcade was stationed. This incident has sparked concerns over the treatment of political dissidents in Azerbaijan and raises questions about the broader implications for U.S.-Azerbaijan relations. The involvement of high-profile figures like Trump and Aliyev adds a layer of scrutiny, as critics argue that such events could overshadow discussions on peace and diplomacy. The video footage has gone viral, amplifying global awareness of human rights issues in Azerbaijan and potentially impacting Azerbaijan’s international reputation. The clash between the bodyguards and protesters underscores the ongoing challenges faced by activists advocating for political prisoners’ release. It also highlights the delicate balance required when hosting foreign dignitaries and managing public dissent. As global attention focuses on these events, the incident may further strain Azerbaijan’s relationships with Western governments and human rights organizations, which are already under scrutiny due to allegations of repression.

Verticals

worldpolitics

Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026