Baku, November 4, 2026 – The Europe Today: Retired US Army Major John Spencer has highlighted the decisive role of President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, national unity and the determination of the Azerbaijani people in securing the country’s victory in the 44-day Patriotic War.
Spencer made the remarks during the presentation of his book, “The War for Karabakh: Strategy, Technology, and Victory,” co-authored with retired US Army Colonel Liam Collins.
He said President Aliyev’s resolute leadership, the courage of Azerbaijani servicemen and the determination of the nation were among the principal factors behind the victory.
According to Spencer, the state leadership’s efforts throughout the war, society-wide mobilisation and the President’s direct involvement in military and political developments played a significant role in achieving the country’s objectives.
Referring to developments during and after the conflict, he said they demonstrated President Aliyev’s leadership and personal engagement in overseeing the process.
Spencer also pointed to the President’s immediate visits to liberated territories, describing them as a reflection of the profound political and moral importance of their liberation for Azerbaijan and its people.
He noted that the sacrifices made by Azerbaijani servicemen demonstrated the immense human cost of victory, while President Aliyev’s respect for the memory of fallen soldiers further reinforced its moral significance.
Identifying the duration of the war, the determination of the Azerbaijani people and nationwide mobilisation as key elements of the victory, Spencer stressed that military success depended not only on battlefield performance but also on strategic political decisions and national unity around a shared objective.
The retired US Army major further emphasised the importance of President Aliyev’s wartime speeches, saying that his regular addresses kept the public informed, strengthened national resolve and clearly communicated the country’s goals throughout the conflict.
