Adam Schiff: We Should Not Fund a Country That Threatens Regional Security Regarding Military Aid to Azerbaijan

Adam Schiff, a congressman known for his pro-Armenian stance, considers the recent bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives to deny military aid to Azerbaijan as a victory, according to Voice of America. He emphasizes that it still requires the approval of the Senate and the President.

Speaking about the tense situation along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, the congressman specifically highlights the need to enhance the role of the OSCE Minsk Group and the importance of developing Armenian-American relations. “In my opinion, we should not fund a country where human rights are violated and that threatens regional security and peace. Furthermore, due to violations of the ceasefire regime by Azerbaijan, a concerning situation has arisen along the border, sadly resulting in fatalities in recent days,” Schiff stated.

The bill passed by the House of Representatives still has several stages to go through. The congressman notes that if it gains the approval of the Senate and the President, it could be maintained in subsequent years. It should be mentioned that the approved bill pertains to the funding of the upcoming budget year.

“Let’s hope it will also succeed in the Senate. Generally, we have seen over the years that such bills do not receive Senate approval, but we must fight to advance the same bill to final success. This is the first bill of this nature to receive the approval of the House of Representatives,” he said.

Regarding Russia's role amid regional developments and the tense situation along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, the congressman emphasized: “Russia will always look out for its interests. If it needs a ceasefire and it aligns with its interests, then there will be a ceasefire; if it needs to freeze the confrontation, rest assured that the OSCE Minsk Group will never achieve success. I believe we can only trust Russia when the situation falls within the scope of its interests, but on the other hand, we see that Armenia is dependent on Russia, so I want to strengthen Armenian-American relations to make Armenia more independent both economically and in terms of security.”

Congressman Schiff has presented his approaches regarding the activation of the OSCE Minsk Group's role to Secretary of State Blinken and the National Security Advisor to the President. According to him, the Minsk Group must have a clear message regarding the created situation, offering practical solutions to all parties.

“A definitive peace must be established in that region, and the Minsk Group should play a significant role in this. The humanitarian crisis has not dissipated since the war, and people need security guarantees to return to their homes. We are very concerned about the incidents of border tension in recent days. This conflict must receive a final resolution,” Schiff declared.

Congressman Adam Schiff noted that he will continue to support all pro-Armenian initiatives, particularly highlighting his support for the recent allocation of approximately $1 million by the federal government for the construction of an Armenian-American museum.