US Mission in OSCE Statement on Armenian Soldier's Death

The Voice of America reports that the US permanent mission to the OSCE has commented on the incident related to the death of Armenian serviceman Hrach Manasyan, who was fatally wounded by gunfire on March 7 at the border section with Azerbaijan in Yeraskh.

In a statement, Deputy Permanent Representative Courtney Ostrian noted, "The United States mourns the death of Armenian serviceman Hrach Manasyan on March 7. This tragic and avoidable death underscores the need for greater restraint, distance between forces in contested border areas, and diplomatic engagement to comprehensively address all unresolved issues."

"We urge the parties to make progress on humanitarian issues, such as the complete release of all remaining detainees, the exchange of information regarding the fate of missing persons, humanitarian demining, and the investigation of alleged human rights violations and breaches of international humanitarian law. The United States has provided $5 million in humanitarian assistance this year to support populations affected by conflicts in both Armenia and Azerbaijan. The United States remains committed to promoting a safe, secure, democratic, prosperous, and peaceful future for the South Caucasus," she added.