In a significant development in the South Caucasus region, Azerbaijan announced on Wednesday that it has ceased military operations in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. This decision came after the Armenian separatist forces in the region surrendered and agreed to a ceasefire. The terms of this ceasefire indicate that the region will revert to Baku’s control.
Details of the Agreement
Effective from 1 p.m. (0900 GMT) on Wednesday, the agreement stipulates that the separatist forces will disband and disarm. Discussions regarding the future of the region and its ethnic Armenian inhabitants are slated to commence on Thursday.
While Karabakh is internationally recognized as Azerbaijani territory, a portion of it has been governed by Armenian separatist authorities, who claim it as their ancestral homeland.
The Aftermath and Concerns
Following the announcement, numerous ethnic Armenians, apprehensive about the future, headed to the Stepanakert airport, the capital of Karabakh. Others sought refuge with Russian peacekeepers stationed in the region.
Azerbaijan has assured that it aims to integrate the region’s 120,000 ethnic Armenians and safeguard their rights under its constitution. However, given the region’s tumultuous history, including two wars since the Soviet Union’s dissolution in 1991, many Armenians remain skeptical. Armenia has accused Azerbaijan of attempting to ethnically cleanse the territory, a claim that Baku vehemently denies.
Political Repercussions in Armenia
The military success of Azerbaijan, backed by Turkey, has the potential to stir political unrest in neighboring Armenia. Many in Armenia are displeased with Yerevan’s inability to offer more substantial support to the Karabakh Armenians. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is already facing resignation demands from certain factions.
Russia’s role, or perceived lack thereof, has also been a point of contention. Some Armenians are disgruntled that Russia, despite having peacekeepers in the region and mediating a ceasefire deal in 2020, failed to deter Azerbaijan.
International Reactions
Azerbaijan’s military campaign has drawn criticism from the United States and several European nations. They believe that the Karabakh issue should have been addressed through diplomatic channels and that Baku’s actions have exacerbated an already challenging humanitarian situation, especially after Azerbaijan’s nine-month blockade of the region.
Conclusion
The cessation of military operations in Nagorno-Karabakh marks a pivotal moment in the longstanding conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia. As the region grapples with the aftermath, the international community will be closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a peaceful and lasting resolution.
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