Sergey Shoigu Discusses Russian Peacekeepers' Work in Artsakh
Russian peacekeepers are doing everything they can to maintain peace in Artsakh, and thanks to their efforts, more than 30,000 people have returned to Stepanakert, stated Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu.
"The peacekeepers sent to the conflict zone have allowed for the stabilization of the situation in the region. The ceasefire regime, established by the trilateral statement, is being maintained. I want to emphasize that our military are acting professionally, doing everything to ensure peace in the region," Shoigu said.
According to him, with the support of the peacekeepers, the exchange of bodies of victims between Armenia and Azerbaijan continues. "More than 30,000 refugees have returned," he noted.
Russian military personnel are also demining roads and other areas: "Over 50 hectares of land have been cleared, more than 17 kilometers of roads have been demined, and over a thousand explosive devices have been neutralized. The Lachin corridor, which is 28 kilometers long and connects to Stepanakert, has been cleared of mines. Civilian vehicles are using this route," he added.
The minister noted that peacekeepers have escorted 3,500 vehicles through the Lachin corridor. Additionally, the deployment of a medical unit from the Eastern Military District has been completed, equipped with modern equipment and the capacity to perform surgeries. The personnel have begun assisting soldiers as well as the local population.
"A connection has been established with the leadership of Nagorno-Karabakh, the ICRC, and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees," Minister Shoigu concluded.