Azerbaijani Attack on Armenian Positions Near Sotk Causes Tension on the Border, Armenian DM Claims

Azerbaijani Attack on Armenian Positions Near Sotk Causes Tension on the Border, Armenian DM Claims

The Armenian Ministry of Defense has reported that as of 08:45 on May 11th, Azerbaijani forces were still firing at Armenian positions near Sotk. The situation has prompted the Armenian Armed Forces to take necessary defensive measures, while other parts of the border remain relatively stable.

Tensions Rise on the Armenian-Azerbaijani Border

The attack on Armenian positions near Sotk marks a new escalation in tensions between the two neighboring countries. The long-standing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region had appeared to be resolved with a ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia in November 2020. However, sporadic clashes and ceasefire violations have continued since then, and the recent attack near Sotk indicates that the conflict is far from over.

The Sotk area has been a point of contention between Armenia and Azerbaijan in recent months. In December 2020, Azerbaijani forces reportedly crossed the border into Armenian territory and advanced into the Sotk area, but later withdrew. The incident was condemned by Armenia and prompted the deployment of additional troops to the area. The attack on May 11th suggests that tensions remain high in the region.

International Response to the Conflict

The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan has drawn international attention and concern. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has been involved in mediation efforts between the two countries, and other countries and international organizations have called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Russia, which has historically had close ties with both Armenia and Azerbaijan, played a key role in brokering the November 2020 ceasefire agreement. However, tensions between Russia and Azerbaijan have increased in recent months, with Azerbaijan accusing Russia of providing military aid to Armenia. Russia has denied the accusations.

The ongoing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan is a reminder of the importance of peaceful resolution of disputes and the need for international cooperation to achieve that goal.