US Calls on Azerbaijan Regarding Closure of Lachin Corridor

The closure of the Lachin Corridor, the only road connecting Artsakh to Armenia and the world, could have serious humanitarian consequences. This was stated by Vedant Patel, Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department, during a press briefing with reporters.

“The closure of the Lachin Corridor can lead to severe humanitarian consequences and, frankly, is slowing down the peace process. We are pleased that gas supply to Nagorno-Karabakh has been restored. As I mentioned, disruptions in energy infrastructure can lead to a humanitarian crisis. We urge for the restoration of free movement through the corridor as soon as possible, and the way to do that is through negotiations,” Patel stated.

When asked whether the US administration believes that the parties will sign a peace agreement by the end of the year, the Deputy Spokesperson of the State Department avoided discussing timelines. “This is a matter that, as you know, the Secretary of State is very much interested in and paying close attention to, along with other senior officials at the State Department. We will continue to be deeply engaged in this matter and work towards a conclusion,” Vedant Patel said.