At 12:00 PM Baku time on January 20, a nationwide minute of silence was observed across Azerbaijan to honor the memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the January 20 tragedy. Public activity throughout the country was briefly suspended as citizens paid their respects to the victims of the events.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, transport movement was temporarily halted during the minute of silence. Ships in the Caspian Sea, as well as vehicles on the streets of Baku and other cities, sounded their sirens in a collective tribute to the fallen. This annual tradition serves as a profound expression of national solidarity and reverence for those who stood for Azerbaijan's independence.
Marking the 36th anniversary of the January 20 events, various commemorative ceremonies are being held in cities and districts across the Republic of Azerbaijan. During these events, officials and speakers emphasize the historical significance of the tragedy, which is regarded as a turning point in the nation's struggle for sovereignty. Since the early hours of the morning, thousands of people have visited the Alley of Martyrs in Baku to lay flowers at the graves of the heroes who perished for the motherland.
The events of January 20, 1990, often referred to as "Black January," involved the violent suppression of the Azerbaijani independence movement by Soviet troops. The intervention resulted in numerous civilian casualties but ultimately failed to break the spirit of the people, leading to the restoration of Azerbaijan's independence in 1991. The day is officially recognized as National Mourning Day in Azerbaijan, symbolizing both deep sorrow and the pride of the national liberation movement.
