Artsakh authorities have accepted Russian peacekeepers’ mediation for a ceasefire by making the decision to disarm the Artsakh Defense Army and withdrawal of all forces.
President Samvel Shahramanyan of Artsakh convened with members of the Security Council, alongside former presidents of Artsakh (Bako Sahakyan, Arkady Ghughasyan, and Arayik Harutyunyan), culminating in the unanimous decision to accede to the presented demands.
The full press release from the Presidential Council, issued by the Artsakh Info Center, is detailed below:
Since September 19, the Republic of Azerbaijan has escalated hostilities against the Republic of Artsakh, utilizing extensive missile, artillery, and air strikes along the entirety of the contact line. An analysis of the actions of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces reveals their intent to dismember Artsakh and inflict irreversible damage on its viability. Over two days of intense battles, units of the Artsakh Armed Forces valiantly defended against the enemy, often finding themselves outnumbered and outgunned, yet still managing to inflict significant losses.
Unfortunately, the Artsakh side also suffered casualties and injuries. In certain areas, the enemy successfully breached the Defense Army’s positions, seizing key heights and strategic road junctions. In the present circumstances, international efforts to conclude the conflict and address the situation have proven inadequate.
Considering all of these factors, the authorities of the Republic of Artsakh have accepted the proposal put forth by the command of the Russian peacekeeping contingent for a cessation of hostilities.
The terms of the agreement are outlined as follows:
- Mediated by the Russian peacekeeping contingent stationed in Artsakh, an agreement was reached for a complete cessation of hostilities commencing at 13:00 on September 20, 2023.
- Additionally, an accord has been reached for the withdrawal of the remaining units and servicemen of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia from the deployment zone of the Russian peacekeeping contingent. This encompasses the disbandment and complete disarmament of the armed formations of the “Defense Army of Artsakh,” as well as the removal of heavy equipment and weapons from the territory of Artsakh for their expeditious disposal.
- Pertinent matters raised by the Azerbaijani side concerning reintegration and the assurance of rights and security for the Armenians of Artsakh, alongside issues pertaining to the sustenance of the population of Artsakh within the framework of the Constitution of Azerbaijan, will be deliberated upon in accordance with the agreement. These discussions are scheduled to occur during a meeting between representatives of the local Armenian population and representatives of the central authorities of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The meeting will take place in the city of Yevlakh on September 21, 2023, and will continue in subsequent sessions.
