Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh recently announced that they were in discussions with Azerbaijan to negotiate the withdrawal of their troops from the region, following the conclusion of a ceasefire. After a rapid offensive by Azerbaijani forces, the separatists were forced to capitulate, and now they are seeking to organize the process of withdrawing their troops.
These negotiations are taking place under the aegis of Russian peacekeeping forces, which are supervising the withdrawal operations. The objective is to allow the return of citizens displaced by the violence and to organize the entry and exit procedure for citizens of Nagorno-Karabakh.
As part of this cessation of hostilities agreement, Armenian separatists began handing over their weapons and military equipment to Russian peacekeeping forces. So far, six armored vehicles, more than 800 small and anti-tank weapons, as well as almost 5,000 munitions have been returned. This handover of weapons is an important step in the process of de-escalating the situation and returning to peace in the region.
Along with the withdrawal of troops and the handing over of weapons, Russian authorities also delivered 50 tons of humanitarian aid to the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh, who are facing a humanitarian emergency. Efforts are also being made to accommodate more than 800 displaced people, a large number of whom are children.
However, the situation remains worrying in Stepanakert, the “capital” of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is now surrounded by Azerbaijani forces. The city’s residents live in constant fear of the arrival of Azerbaijani soldiers and possible massacres. Basic utilities are lacking in the region, with an absence of electricity, gas, food and fuel, as well as communication difficulties.
Despite these challenges, talks are taking place between Azerbaijanis and Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh to discuss the region’s reintegration into Azerbaijan. Measures are being taken to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid and to recover the bodies of combatants remaining on the ground.
As the withdrawal and de-escalation process continues, it is essential to support efforts to peacefully resolve the conflict and ensure the security and well-being of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh. Only a negotiated and lasting solution will put an end to the suffering and establish lasting peace in the region.