Moscow calls for an end to the anti-terrorist operation in Karabakh

Baku/19.09.23/Turan: Moscow has expressed deep concern over the sudden escalation of hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh, as announced by the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, during a press briefing.

Zakharova revealed reports of anti-terrorist operations initiated by the Azerbaijani armed forces, met with retaliatory actions by local Armenian armed groups. In response to these developments, the Russian side has issued a compelling plea to the conflicting parties, urging them to halt the ongoing bloodshed and immediately cease hostilities. The message underscored the imperative need to return to the path of a political and diplomatic resolution.

"All steps towards a peaceful settlement of the Karabakh issue are meticulously outlined in the series of trilateral agreements signed by the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, spanning from 2020 to 2021," Zakharova emphasized.

She further emphasized the recent efforts, led by Russia and other international mediators, which have laid the foundation for a peaceful resolution of the Karabakh problem. Initiatives such as humanitarian aid deliveries to the population of Karabakh have contributed to fostering a conducive environment for reigniting direct dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert.

In the prevailing situation, the Russian peacekeeping mission (RPM) continues to execute its assigned duties. Moscow expects an unconditional commitment from all parties involved to ensure the security of peacekeepers.

Zakharova clarified that the RPM command remains in constant communication with representatives of the Armenian community in Karabakh and Azerbaijani authorities with the primary aim of achieving a ceasefire and the resumption of the aforementioned trilateral agreements at the highest level.--0--