Ruben Vardanyan Makes a Statement

A former state minister of Artsakh, Ruben Vardanyan, wrote on his Facebook page: "One hundred days ago, Azerbaijan aimed to isolate us, the Armenians living here, by closing the corridor connecting Artsakh to Armenia and the outside world. This was a tool of pressure meant to weaken us, break our will, and force us out of Artsakh. But Azerbaijan not only failed to achieve its goal, but this step also had the opposite effect: it awakened us all and reminded us that, despite all our differences, we share the same goal—to live with dignity and peace in our homeland.

During this 100-day blockade, we can note the following:

1. Resistance: Despite the hardships and a harsh winter, the exceptional resilience and indomitable will of the people of Artsakh demonstrated that they are ready to resist pressures and continue the struggle that began 35 years ago.

2. Unity: The crisis became a unique period of consolidation for us. With the rally on December 25, the people showed that they are ready for unity.

3. Dignified Resistance: Our young men gave a worthy response to Azerbaijan's terrorist actions on March 5, showing that if you fight with spirit and will, you cannot be defeated. We must be guided by this example of dignity.

4. International Attention: We were able to capture the attention of the international community, various countries, and international organizations, making Artsakh's voice heard around the world.

5. Side by Side, But Not Together: Azerbaijan's actions demonstrated that Artsakh cannot be under Azerbaijan's control. The status of Artsakh must be determined based on the exercise of the right of self-determination of the people living here.

6. Response from the Diaspora: The strength of Artsakh compelled the Armenian diaspora to pay greater attention to the region and raise the issue of Artsakh on various platforms.

7. Artsakh’s Issue Is Not Azerbaijan's Internal Problem: Azerbaijan failed to achieve its objectives and to show that the issue of Artsakh is an internal problem for it.

8. International Condemnation: Various international bodies condemned Azerbaijan's actions, and the European Court of Human Rights and the International Court of Justice ruled that Azerbaijan must immediately restore its connection with Armenia.

9. Inventory: The crisis allowed us to assess our weaknesses and understand what needs to be done to strengthen them.

10. Shortsightedness: A multitude of 'problem solvers' and 'opportunists' emerged who failed to appreciate and comprehend the full seriousness of the situation.

11. Avoiding Collapse: The difficulties arising from a harsh winter, an energy crisis, and challenges in all other sectors were managed without collapse.

The blockade, which began 100 days ago and continues, again reminds us that we will always fight for Artsakh as long as we live. Our path is not easy, but it has also taught us to be incredibly persistent. This once again highlighted that the issue of Artsakh is not only a matter for the Armenians living in Artsakh but for all Armenians. I am more than confident that if we act in unity—Artsakh, Armenia, and the Diaspora—with a clear purpose and vision, no one will be able to defeat us."