Ulviyya Ali, a dedicated journalist, reported on human rights violations in Azerbaijan for Voice of America. Her work made her a target of the Azerbaijani government. Today, she is imprisoned, isolated from the world. The United States has the power to aid her release, but the question is whether it will act.

The Mission of Voice of America

Since its inception, Voice of America has had a clear mission: to share the truth with its audiences. Ulviyya believed in this mission despite the risks. In Azerbaijan, her efforts stood out in a nation known for severe repression of press freedom. She exposed human rights abuses as one of the few remaining independent journalists there.

Ulviyya’s commitment came at a personal cost. She trusted in Voice of America’s principles and believed that if these values were threatened, America would support her. So far, support has not been evident. Following a 2025 executive order from President Trump to close Voice of America, the U.S. government remained silent as Ulviyya was imprisoned.

Ulviyya Ali’s Ordeal

Ulviyya endures imprisonment on charges of “smuggling” foreign currency and “money laundering.” These charges are seen as fabricated. Her sentence could extend up to 20 years. Despite these circumstances, the U.S. has not issued a statement, and the U.S. Agency for Global Media has not taken steps for her release.

Precedents of Intervention

Previously, the U.S. intervened for Voice of America journalists. In 2009, they helped free reporter Mohammed Yasin Isahaq from Somalia. In 2022, they condemned an attack on journalist Godwin Mangudya in Zimbabwe. They have assisted Azerbaijani journalists before, such as Khadija Ismayilova, whose release in 2016 followed American pressure.

If the U.S. remains silent about Ulviyya’s situation, the implications extend beyond Azerbaijan. America’s credibility and commitment to supporting journalists in dangerous contexts would be questioned.

Calls for Action

Ulviyya’s fiancé, Ramin Guluzada, continues to seek support. He appeals for the full weight of the U.S. government’s intervention. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Jeanne Shaheen have publicly defended Ulviyya, but further actions are needed.

• The State Department should address her case publicly and in dialogues with Azerbaijan.
• Congress should consider sanctions against officials involved in her detention and abuse.
• The U.S. Agency for Global Media must advocate actively for her release.

Personal Sacrifices and Hopes

Ulviyya expected challenges as a journalist in Azerbaijan. She anticipated imprisonment, yet her spirit remains unbroken. Writing from prison, she continues to report on inmate stories and conditions.

Her fiancé longs for her freedom and for them to be together again. After spending only two weeks together as an engaged couple, he calls for America’s assistance in bringing her home.

Ramin emphasizes the urgency of the situation, joining press freedom organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders, in demanding Ulviyya’s immediate release.