Observers report that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan criticized Russia for failing to implement the agreements reached by the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, a stance in response to statements from Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, about Yerevan’s alleged efforts to distance itself from the tripartite commitments. The exchange underscores frustration over whether the tripartite framework remains effective in shaping the Nagorno-Karabakh situation. Attribution: Interlocutory statements within regional diplomacy
Pashinyan urged Moscow to revisit the tripartite statement issued on November 9, 2020, and to read it carefully through paragraph 8 to understand which side fulfilled or neglected its obligations. He challenged Russia to analyze the document and assess responsibility for each obligation, asking whether the text implies that Azerbaijan should have launched attacks on Nagorno-Karabakh or that Russian peacekeepers should be placed in shelters at this moment. Attribution: Armenian leadership commentary on treaty obligations
The Armenian prime minister reiterated that Russian peacekeepers are deployed in the region to safeguard the Armenian population and called for a comprehensive review of the current developments. The message emphasizes the perception that peacekeeping forces have a targeted protective mandate and that their presence is central to stabilizing the area amid ongoing tensions. Attribution: Peacekeeping mission rationale
On September 19, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense announced the launch of a local anti-terrorism operation in Nagorno-Karabakh, describing the mission as a measure to quell what it termed large-scale provocations and to disarm and withdraw Armenian military units from the territory. The announcement signaled a shift in momentum, with Baku presenting a security-focused rationale for its actions. Attribution: Azerbaijani defense ministry statement
Subsequently, on September 20, representatives from Baku and Karabakh agreed to a ceasefire under the auspices of Russian peacekeepers. The ceasefire established a halt in active hostilities, while discussions continued about the prospects for a formal peace treaty. The evolving diplomacy highlights how international actors, including Russian peacekeeping forces, have become central to attempts at stabilizing the conflict despite persistent disagreements. Attribution: Ceasefire development and ongoing negotiations
Earlier, Pashinyan accused Russia of not fulfilling certain arms-related commitments, raising questions about the reliability and interpretation of defense and security agreements in the region. The ongoing dialogue reflects deep concerns about compliance, accountability, and the path toward lasting peace in Nagorno-Karabakh. Attribution: Ongoing political discourse on arms and security agreements