The Soldier Becomes a Prisoner: Should We Not Examine the Circumstances Surrounding It?

Criminal cases have been initiated regarding the facts of the captivity of soldiers returned from Azerbaijan, and the circumstances of their captivity are being investigated, said Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

“Of course, all cases must be examined. A soldier becomes a prisoner, and shouldn’t we investigate the circumstances of that? After all, excuse me, there is law and legality, and each case should be examined in relation to the law and military oath,” said Pashinyan.

He noted that this should not be exaggerated, but it should not be forgotten either. The Prime Minister mentioned that there are situations when, for instance, a soldier heroically fought and surrendered in an incapacitated state.

“Even if no one surrenders, for example, there is a certain procedure for losing a weapon, which entails criminal liability. Should we forget all this and overlook that we are a state, no matter how many forces want it to be this way? Is the military oath simply a formality?” asked Pashinyan.

He added that every case of captivity should be investigated, and where there is an opportunity for criminal liability, it should follow.