Russian Ambassador: Peacekeepers' Functions in Artsakh Are Limited

Despite the increasingly complex conditions, it must be clearly understood that without Russia and the entry of its peacekeepers, part of Nagorno-Karabakh, specifically Stepanakert, would not be as it is today. This viewpoint was expressed by the Russian Ambassador to Armenia, Sergey Kopirkin, in an interview with Sputnik Armenia, as he commented on the critical statements regarding the Russian peacekeeping contingent voiced in Armenian political and informational circles.

“I understand that the population has a certain sense of disappointment given that some forceful actions are taking place in Nagorno-Karabakh, and the Lachin corridor is currently blocked. Russia initially made it clear that this contradicts the trilateral statement,” Kopirkin stated.

According to him, continuous work is being carried out, and the new leadership of the peacekeeping forces is doing everything possible to resolve the issue. The ambassador urged for an understanding approach to the reality that the peacekeepers' functions are limited; they are not political figures or supreme judges.

“Peacekeepers are not an occupying force like in post-war Germany, where there was a curfew and decisions were made. The functions of peacekeepers are entirely different. I am completely confident that in the most important matter, the peacekeepers are properly fulfilling their functions. The fact is that issues arise that require a political solution with the participation of all parties that signed the trilateral statement. Joint efforts need to be made here. Based on this, the Russian Federation is constantly working on the resolution of existing issues. It is not easy, but the work continues,” emphasized the Russian ambassador to Armenia.

It should be noted that Azerbaijan has blocked the bridge over the Hakari River and established a checkpoint near the entrance to the Lachin corridor since April 23. As a result, the Armenian villages of Yeghsarhogh, Hin Shen, Mets Shen, and Lisagor in Nagorno-Karabakh have been cut off from Armenia. The Lachin corridor connecting Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh has remained closed since December 2022.

The full interview with the Russian Ambassador Sergey Kopirkin will be published on May 9.