Washington: US Congressmen Steve Cohen, representing Tennessee in the House of Representatives, and Robert B. Aderholt, representing Alabama, have issued statements on the 36th anniversary of the 20 January tragedy.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, in his statement, Congressman Steve Cohen recounted the events of that night in 1990, where nearly 26,000 Soviet troops stormed the Azerbaijani capital city of Baku. Tanks and armored vehicles were deployed against the civilian population, leading to the deaths of 147 individuals, injuries to approximately 800 others, the arrest of 841 people, and the disappearance of five. Cohen noted that the United States was one of the first countries to recognize Azerbaijan's independence, establishing diplomatic relations on February 28, 1992. He emphasized the strategic alliance and shared interests between the United States and Azerbaijan.

As Co-Chairman of the Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus, Cohen urged his colleagues to acknowledge the Azerbaijani people's sacrifices in their pursuit of independence and to encourage a renewed commitment to democratic values.

Congressman Robert Aderholt, in his statement, referred to the 36th anniversary of Black January as a symbol of the beginning of the end of Soviet rule over Azerbaijan. He noted that Azerbaijan can now celebrate the first year of sustained peace since gaining its independence, thanks in part to the efforts of the American President. Aderholt called on his colleagues to commemorate the events of Black January and honor those who lost their lives in pursuit of freedom. He also expressed gratitude to President Donald J. Trump for his efforts in securing peace and prosperity for Azerbaijan.

The text of both statements has been published on the website of the U.S. Congress.