All Armenian prisoners should be returned no matter the circumstances of their captivity

During a plenary session of the European Council, a discussion was held regarding prisoners of war in the context of the most recent conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, featuring a speech by the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell.

Borrell expressed gratitude to the members of the European Parliament for raising the issue of prisoners of war and detained individuals following the military actions of 2020.

“We carefully noted the letter from 120 members regarding this matter. The European Union has adopted a clear stance: we have repeatedly called upon both sides to fully implement the ceasefire agreement. We have also urged them to exchange prisoners of war and to release all remaining detainees, irrespective of the circumstances of their captivity, in accordance with international humanitarian law and the ceasefire agreement.

Releasing all Armenian prisoners is crucial for building trust and confidence and would be an important political gesture. We welcomed the release of Armenian detainees on January 29 and May 4. We insist that all remaining detainees be released without delay.

The European Union expects both sides to cooperate not only on the return of prisoners but also on other significant humanitarian issues. The search for and repatriation of the remains of the missing must continue. Urgent and decisive actions are necessary towards the exchange of information required for humanitarian demining operations, including the sharing of maps of cleared areas, to facilitate access to areas affected by the conflict,” Borrell stated in his address.

At the same time, he emphasized the importance of measures to alleviate tensions and ensure progress for communities in peaceful conditions, highlighting the necessity to avoid inflammatory rhetoric.

The European Union has called for accountability for any violations of international humanitarian law. Allegations of torture, ill-treatment, or execution of prisoners and any other war crimes that may have occurred during the recent military actions must be thoroughly investigated. The EU is ready to support independent mechanisms for international justice and assist in the independent investigation of such claims.

Ceasing military actions and immediately addressing humanitarian issues is only the first step in halting the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. New diplomatic efforts are necessary for comprehensive and sustainable resolution. The European Union fully supports the OSCE Minsk Group under its co-chairs. We are ready to contribute to the promotion of a lasting and comprehensive settlement, including through measures aimed at stabilization and confidence-building,” Borrell stressed.