Statement by U.S. Permanent Representative to the OSCE, Ambassador James Gilmore III on Nagorno-Karabakh

The U.S. Embassy in Armenia has presented the statement of U.S. Permanent Representative to the OSCE, Ambassador James S. Gilmore III, regarding the ongoing conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh.

“The United States, as a co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, welcomes the apparent establishment of a ceasefire and the cessation of hostilities in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone. We have consistently stated that this conflict has no military solution and deeply regret the unnecessary loss of life, including among civilians, as a result of recent actions.

As we learn more about the evolving situation and the agreement reached on November 10, we must address the role of the international community and the OSCE in ensuring transparent peace.

The humanitarian situation on the ground is a serious concern for all of us. We reaffirm our urgent calls to the parties to adhere to the humanitarian ceasefire agreement of October 10, which the parties reiterated on October 17 and again on October 25. We also urge the parties to take immediate steps agreed upon in Geneva on October 29.

We call on the parties to protect civilians and civilian structures. The mass displacement of civilians, including vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children, during a global pandemic and on the eve of winter will almost certainly lead to an unnecessary humanitarian crisis.

We urge the parties to refrain from actions that could lead to a resumption of hostilities, to avoid provocative rhetoric and actions, and to use the opportunity created by the cessation of hostilities to build lasting peace.

We call on external actors to act responsibly and refrain from actions that could provoke further clashes or exacerbate regional tensions.

This conflict has gone on for far too long. The people in the affected zones and the region are paying a very high price for it. We hope that lasting peace is in our sights. We are confident that the Minsk Group will be ready to participate in establishing sustainable and enduring peace in Nagorno-Karabakh.”