Russia's ban on the sales of weapons and military planes to Baku is linked to an Armenian factor, a Russian military expert said.

"Karabakh conflict has always been a major headache for Russia, the latter promoting a peaceful settlement between the conflicting sides. However, with neither of the sides agreeing to settlement options offered, a war is becoming increasingly possible. Russia, true to its obligations as a CSTO member, will take Armenia's side," APA quoted Viktor Baranets as saying.

"Moscow's preferential support of Yerevan, as well as Russian military base in Armenia are among the reasons affecting its relations with Baku. Were Russia allowed to deploy its forces in Azerbaijan, the Karabakh conflict would have been resolved in accordance with Azerbaijani interests," the expert noted.