If Violence Does Not Cease, We Will Recognize the Independence of Artsakh

If Baku and Ankara continue this violence instead of resolving the conflict peacefully, they are prepared to recognize the independence of Artsakh. This statement was made by U.S. Congressman Adam Schiff.

“I hope that the U.S. clearly explains to Azerbaijan and Turkey that if they continue this violence instead of resolving the conflict peacefully, we are ready to recognize the independence of Artsakh,” Schiff stated.

The congressman also promised to work with the international community to achieve results. During a conversation about the ongoing conflict in Artsakh with Armenian Ambassador to the U.S. Varuzhan Nersesyan, Schiff mentioned the ongoing military campaign by Azerbaijan, which is supported by Turkey and foreign mercenaries brought in from Syria, causing the deaths of hundreds and displacing half of Artsakh’s population. “We also discussed the shelling of the historically significant Saint Ghazanchetsots Church in Shushi by Azerbaijan,” he added.

Schiff emphasized that Presidents Aliyev and Erdogan must understand that they cannot resolve a decades-long border dispute through indiscriminate force against civilians. “The U.S. will not stand by when they attempt to do this. The only solution to this dispute can be negotiations, not missiles and bombs raining down on Armenian civilians,” Adam Schiff added.

In the early hours of September 27, Azerbaijan launched an attack on Artsakh, in violation of all international obligations, with the direct participation of the Turkish army and terrorists brought from the Middle East. During this time, both Artsakh and Armenian settlements were repeatedly shelled, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries among the civilian population, and dozens of buildings were destroyed, causing immense damage to civilian infrastructure. The Armenian Armed Forces are engaged in heroic and stubborn battles against the adversary, causing them heavy losses in manpower and equipment.