Tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan have escalated once again as the two countries clash at their common border. Both sides have reported casualties in the fighting that took place northwest of the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Armenia’s Defence Ministry announced that four of its servicemen were killed and another was wounded in shelling near the border villages of Sotk and Norabak. Azerbaijan, on the other hand, claimed that Armenia had targeted its positions in the Kalbajar region using drones, resulting in three Azerbaijani servicemen being wounded.
This recent incident comes just a day after Armenia accused its treaty ally, Russia, of showing absolute indifference towards attacks on its territory. Armenia also accused Azerbaijan of amassing forces near the border and launching attacks using drones, mortars, and small arms fire. Azerbaijan denied these claims, stating that it was merely taking retaliatory measures.
As a result of the clashes, four Armenian servicemen were killed and three Azerbaijani soldiers were wounded. Both sides continue to blame each other for initiating the violence and accuse each other of spreading disinformation.
The clashes further complicate peace efforts between the two countries, which have long been embroiled in a bitter dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh. Though internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan, the region is predominantly populated by ethnic Armenians.
Armenia has also accused Azerbaijan of obstructing the transportation of food and aid supplies to Armenian-populated towns in Nagorno-Karabakh through the Lachin corridor, the sole road connecting Armenia to the region.
The conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh has deep historical roots, with intermittent discussions attempting to resolve the issues surrounding the region’s borders and differences between ethnic Armenians and Turkic Azeris. However, tensions remain high, and border skirmishes are a regular occurrence.
The ongoing fighting, coupled with a months-long blockade of Karabakh by Azerbaijan, has strained the previously warm relations between Armenia and Russia. Russia, traditionally an ally of Armenia, currently maintains a peacekeeping contingent in Karabakh.
In response, Armenia’s Foreign Ministry released a statement accusing Russia of absolute indifference towards the aggression against its sovereign territory and of using false excuses to avoid supporting Armenia.
The situation remains volatile, and the recent clashes underscore the challenges faced in achieving a lasting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Both countries must find a way to de-escalate tensions, pursue diplomatic solutions, and prioritize the well-being of the affected populations.
