Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: Azerbaijan Arrests Former Karabakh Leader at Border

Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: Azerbaijan Arrests Former Karabakh Leader at Border

Arrest of Former Separatist Leader Triggers Exodus

A recent development has unfolded in the ongoing crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh, as Azerbaijani officials report the arrest of former Nagorno-Karabakh leader Ruben Vardanyan at the border. This apprehension occurred as he attempted to exit the enclave en route to Armenia. Vardanyan was attempting to escape Armenia after the chaos triggered by Azerbaijan’s retaking of the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The region has been home to a majority of ethnic Armenians and recent events have led to over 47,000 people fleeing due to fears of Azerbaijani reprisals.

International Pressure for Monitoring

Western governments, including Germany, are pressing for international observers to monitor the treatment of the local population. The intention is to ensure that human rights are upheld and any potential abuse is promptly reported. However, Azerbaijan has expressed its intention to reintegrate the Armenian residents, denying allegations of ethnic cleansing.

(Read Also: Putin and Raisi Discuss Nagorno-Karabakh Situation: A Step Towards Regional Stability)

Karabakh Fuel Depot Explosion

In the midst of the ongoing crisis, a fuel depot explosion in Karabakh claimed the lives of at least 68 people. In addition, 105 people are still missing and nearly 300 have been injured. The cause of the explosion is yet to be determined.

(Read Also: U.S. Pledges $11.5 Million in Humanitarian Aid for Karabakh)

Russia’s Role in the Caucasus Region

This escalating crisis has also brought to light Russia’s diminished role as a security guarantor in the Caucasus region. Given the complexity of the conflict and the regional power dynamics, it remains uncertain how this situation will evolve and what role Russia will play in the future.

The situation in Nagorno-Karabakh remains volatile and uncertain. The mass exodus of ethnic Armenians reflects the fear and insecurity experienced by the population. International pressure is mounting for monitoring to ensure the fair treatment of the local population. The explosion at the Karabakh fuel depot has further escalated the crisis. In the midst of all this, Russia’s role as a security guarantor appears to be diminishing, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

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