Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the Border Situation

On August 16, Azerbaijani armed forces carried out provocative actions in the border areas of the Republic of Armenia, targeting the peaceful population of border communities near the village of Yeraskh, around Lake Sev in the Syunik region, and towards the Gegharkunik region. The gunfire from various caliber firearms by Azerbaijani armed forces continued in the Sotk area of the Gegharkunik region on August 17.

As a result of the shooting conducted by the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, on August 16, soldier Vahan Tatosyan of the Armenian Armed Forces sustained fatal gunshot wounds in the Yeraskh area from a sniper's shot, and soldier Arman Hakobyan was shot in the direction of the Gegharkunik region from the enemy’s fire. On August 17, another soldier of the Armenian Armed Forces was injured by gunfire.

We extend our deepest condolences and support to the families and relatives of the fallen soldiers, as well as wishing a speedy recovery to the injured soldier.

It is noteworthy that these actions coincide with the threats made by the Azerbaijani high command regarding the use of force against Armenia's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as against Artsakh.

We strongly condemn the provocative actions by Azerbaijan, which clearly aim to jeopardize the efforts directed at de-escalation and to undermine regional security and peace. These actions are intended to obstruct the resumption of peaceful negotiations under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairmanship, as well as to thwart the regional unblocking process and the opening of all means of communication.

The Republic of Armenia will consistently defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the right of the people of Artsakh to self-determination and to live in their homeland.