EU calls 'immediate cessation of hostilities' as Armenia-Azerbaijan clashes reignite

European Union (EU) on Wednesday called for an “immediate cessation of hostilities” after clashes reignited between Azerbaijan and Armenia over disputed mountaius region of Nagor-Karabakh. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell's spokesperson said in a statement, “It is essential to de-escalate, fully respect ceasefire and return to negotiating table to seek negotiated solutions.” 

“ European Union calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities which have broken out between Azerbaijani and Armenian forces around Lachin corridor and or places along Line of Contact. Regrettably, se clashes already led to loss of life and injuries,” statement also read.

disputed region of Nagor-Karabakh has been a flashpoint for about 30 years between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Nagor-Karabakh lies within Azerbaijan but has been controlled by ethnic Armenian forces since end of a war in 1994. In September 2020, Azerbaijan and Armenian forces fought a war over mountaius region. At time, Azerbaijan won back a part of territory. Subsequently, a Russia-brokered ceasefire was also signed. 

However, violence flared in recent days, and both sides have accused each or of breaching ceasefire. On Wednesday, Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry said that Armenia committed an act of sabot and killed one of its soldiers breaching agreement. Baku also said that it had to fight Armenia’s attempt to capture a hill in disputed zone. It furr demanded disarmament of “illegal Armenian formations”. 

US expresses concern over clashes in Nagor-Karabakh

United States expressed deep concern over reports of intensive fighting around Nagor-Karabakh region. In a statement, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said, “ United States is deeply concerned by and closely following reports of intensive fighting around Nagor-Karabakh, including casualties and loss of life.  We urge immediate steps to reduce tensions and avoid furr escalation.”

“ recent increase in tensions underscores need for a negotiated, comprehensive, and sustainable settlement of all remaining issues related to or resulting from Nagor-Karabakh conflict,” he added.

Meanwhile, Russia accused Azerbaijani Armed Forces of breaching ceasefire in mountaius zone of Nagor-Karabakh conflict. In report on activities of Russian peacekeepers in separatist region, Russian Defence Ministry said that Azerbaijan’s forces violated ceasefire in area of height of Sarybaba. Earlier, clashes were reported between Armenia and Azerbaijan leaving at least three soldiers dead as decades-old conflict reignited. 

IM: AP