Our Top Priority is to Ensure Military Security, Which Strengthens Our Sovereignty: Minister of Defense

Loss of sovereignty occurs when security is not guaranteed. The steps that strengthen security also reinforce the independence and sovereignty of the state. This was stated by the Minister of Defense of Armenia, Vagharshak Harutyunyan, in response to a question from Zinjush Media regarding whether the deployment of Russian border guards in Syunik could signify a loss of Armenia's sovereignty.

“I want to remind you that in 1992, when we gained independence, we began the process of joining the CSTO, securing borders with the Armenian-Russian military cooperation, and signed numerous documents that strengthen our security. All these measures, documents, and actions have been aimed at reinforcing our security because we face such threats in the region. We saw this in 2016 and again in 2020 when we witnessed Turkey's aggression in collaboration with Azerbaijan not only against Artsakh but against our borders as well. Our top priority today is to ensure military security, which leads to the strengthening of our sovereignty and independence,” emphasized the minister.

According to Vagharshak Harutyunyan, the concerns of the residents of Syunik are understandable, as there is a process underway where Armenian and Azerbaijani border troops are positioning themselves. “I want to say that what is being done now and the agreements reached with Russia and Azerbaijan allow us to say that those sections are better secured. Why? First, Russian border guards take control of the Goris-Davit Bek road, our border troops are stationed in our territory, and they visually monitor that road, ensuring the security of the second layer. Our border troops are backed by our army, and there is an agreement that no troops will be present in that section of our border troops and the road. The same applies to Azerbaijan. This leads to a situation where the security of that road is ensured,” he said.

Commenting on Russia's role, Harutyunyan noted that Russia decides with Armenian and Azerbaijani border guards how far its observation post should stand. “Russia has a checkpoint located in the Goris area and in Davit Bek, and all movements must pass through that observation post. Therefore, security is ensured here. In the same way, the security of the Kapani front is also secured,” the minister added.

Addressing the presence of Azerbaijani soldiers near Armenian settlements, he stated that the videos that have emerged are from a few days ago, and such incidents can happen as processes are ongoing; hence, there is nothing to be worried about.