Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the border situation between Armenia and Azerbaijan as stable and urged both sides to avoid escalating the conflict. The briefing was broadcast live by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscoring Moscow’s attempt to project calm while keeping a close watch on developments along the line separating the two states.
During the period of May 11 to May 12, violations of the ceasefire were reported on both sides of the Armenia–Azerbaijan border. Despite those incidents, the spokesperson emphasized that the overall situation has since stabilized. The call from Moscow remained clear: both the Azerbaijani and Armenian authorities should refrain from provocative actions that could reignite hostilities. The emphasis was on restraint and careful handling of communications to prevent a broader confrontation, especially in a region with a long history of fragile truces and sporadic clashes.
Looking ahead, Zakharova noted that on May 19 Moscow is slated to host a set of diplomatic engagements. The program includes tripartite meetings involving the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his colleagues from Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as separate bilateral discussions. These meetings are positioned as a chance to advance dialogue, de-escalate tensions, and explore practical steps toward stabilizing the border area and negotiating broader political issues tied to the conflict.
In related political commentary, a declaration attributed to Nikol Pashinyan, described here as the former Prime Minister of Armenia, claimed that Yerevan recognizes Azerbaijan’s sovereignty over a defined stretch of land within its borders, totaling 86.6 thousand square meters. The statement also references Nagorno-Karabakh and proposes that an international delegation be sent to Karabakh to begin negotiations. This framing of sovereignty and negotiation strategy adds another layer to the ongoing discussion about land status, self-determination, and regional security.
Experts note that the Armenian position remains nuanced. While recognizing certain sovereignty implications, there is an insistence on maintaining a pathway to international mediation. The broader framework involves addressing disputed territories, ensuring the safety of civilians, and creating conditions for durable peace through verified ceasefires and confidence-building measures. The Russian diplomacy track, including Lavrov’s meetings in Moscow, is viewed by many analysts as a critical channel for de-escalation, technical coordination, and the alignment of regional interests with international norms. In this context, observers stress the need for transparent reporting, verified ceasefire compliance, and prompt, sincere diplomacy on both sides.
As the diplomatic process unfolds, regional stakeholders will be watching closely how statements from Moscow translate into on-the-ground actions. The objective remains clear: prevent renewed fighting, protect civilian lives, and lay the groundwork for meaningful negotiations that can endure beyond episodic truces. The involvement of major powers and regional partners suggests that the border issue will continue to be a focal point of international diplomacy, with the potential to influence broader security dynamics in the South Caucasus.
[Source: Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs](citation attribution).