Pope Francis Addresses the Situation in Lachin

Pope Francis has expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. Today, the Pope called on all parties to find "peaceful solutions in favor of the people." This was reported by Vatican News. He stated that he is "worried about the situation prevailing in the South Caucasus, particularly in the Lachin corridor."

"I am concerned about the dire humanitarian condition of the people, which threatens to worsen during the winter season," he added.

It should be noted that on December 12, at approximately 10:30 AM, a group of Azerbaijanis in civilian clothing, once again citing environmental reasons, blocked the Stepanakert-Goris highway. The Azerbaijani side violated the provisions of the tripartite agreement of November 9, 2020, by closing the only road connecting Artsakh to the world, infringing upon the vital interests and rights of the civilian population.

On December 13, Azerbaijan also halted gas supplies to Artsakh. Yesterday, December 16, Artsakh's State Minister Ruben Vardanyan stated during a live broadcast that Azerbaijan resumed gas supply without any preconditions or concessions on their part. He noted that the road might open later in the day; however, a day after that announcement, the only road connecting Artsakh to Armenia remains closed.