Election Aftermath and Escalation: The Unfolding Crisis in Armenia

Election Aftermath and Escalation: The Unfolding Crisis in Armenia

Electoral Fallout Triggers State Coup in Yerevan

The city of Yerevan, Armenia, is currently grappling with an ongoing state coup, the roots of which can be traced back to recent mayoral elections. A significant lack of consolidation among democratic parties led to a low voter turnout of 70%, facilitating the rise of pro-Putin, pro-Russian parties to a slim majority. This election result is perceived as a cue to launch a broader operation, one that aims to displace hundreds of thousands of people from Karabakh. The expectation is that these displaced individuals will fill the squares and streets of Yerevan, as part of a plan believed to be orchestrated by Putin. The social tension is escalating, and fears are mounting that should this plan succeed, it could birth a dictatorship in Armenia and potentially extend to the entire region, including Georgia.

Local Anti-Terrorist Measures in Karabakh Spur Tension

On September 19, the Ministry of Defense in Azerbaijan declared the commencement of “local anti-terrorist measures” in a bid to restore constitutional order in Karabakh. In response, Armenia’s Foreign Ministry accused Azerbaijan of carrying out “ethnic cleansing”. This contentious exchange between the two nations further fueled the escalating tension in the region.

Clashes in Yerevan Result in Injuries

Protests in the heart of Yerevan resulted in clashes with the police. As of the morning of September 20, the toll stood at 34 injured individuals, with 16 police officers and 18 civilians among those hurt in the clashes.

Ceasefire Declared Amidst Continued Tension

Despite the ongoing conflict, the leadership in Karabakh announced a ceasefire on September 20. However, the President of Azerbaijan stated that “all tasks in the region” were completed, suggesting a disparity in the perceived status of the conflict between the two sides.

Armenia Calls for UN Peacekeeping Mission

Ararat Mirzoyan, the head of Armenia’s Foreign Ministry, called on the United Nations to establish a peacekeeping mission in Nagorno-Karabakh in an effort to ensure stability and security in the region. His call came amidst escalating tension and conflict in the area.

Azerbaijan Announces Amnesty for Armenian Military

In a significant development on September 22, Azerbaijan announced an amnesty for the Armenian military in Nagorno-Karabakh who lay down their arms. This move represents a potential step towards de-escalation, despite the ongoing tension and conflict.

France Expresses Unconditional Support for Armenia

On September 24, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed “unconditional” support for Armenia in its conflict with Azerbaijan. Macron emphasized that France will continue to provide support at both humanitarian and political levels, signifying international involvement in the ongoing crisis.

Call for Nationwide Act of Disobedience in Yerevan

In a recent turn of events, on September 25, protesters in Yerevan announced a nationwide act of disobedience scheduled for the next three days. This represents a significant escalation in the ongoing crisis and suggests that the situation is far from resolution.