Azerbaijani Military Victory in Nagorno-Karabakh Sparks Armenian Exodus

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev have appreciated Baku's military success in the region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

This victory has prompted thousands of ethnic Armenians to flee from the breakaway region into Armenia. 

The article aims at discussing the unfolding situation and its geopolitical implications.

Background on Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, rooted in historical tensions, has been a longstanding dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

This mountainous region, which is internationally recognized as a part of Azerbaijan, also inhabited mainly by ethnic Armenians, has seen sporadic clashes and violence for decades.

The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 ignited a full-scale war between the two nations, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties.

The conflict culminated in a ceasefire in 1994, leaving Nagorno-Karabakh under de facto Armenian control.

Azerbaijani Military Operation and Ceasefire

In September 2020, Azerbaijan launched a military operation to reclaim Nagorno-Karabakh, backed by modern weaponry and substantial resources.

The intense fighting led to a ceasefire brokered by Russia, which took effect in November 2020. This ceasefire agreement was welcomed by the international community but left critical issues unresolved.

Armenian Refugees Seek Safety

Following the recent Azerbaijani military operation, ethnic Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh faced dire circumstances.

Reports of civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure emerged, prompting many residents to flee their homes. Fearing further violence and displacement, thousands sought refuge in Armenia, where humanitarian organizations and the government have been working to provide assistance to those in need.

Humanitarian Concerns and Petrol Station Incident

As Armenian refugees made their way to Armenia, humanitarian concerns intensified. The incident at a petrol station near Stepanakert underscored the challenging conditions faced by those escaping the region.

The explosion left dozens injured, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian aid and medical assistance.

Talks and Geopolitical Shifts

Azerbaijani and separatist representatives engaged in talks to address the ongoing conflict's complexities.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Erdogan's visit to Nakhchivan, a region with a strategic border with Turkey, underscores the evolving geopolitical landscape. 

Discussions regarding regional ties and global issues are indicative of shifting alliances and interests in the South Caucasus.

US Involvement and Russian Influence

Amidst the crisis, senior US officials visited Armenia, emphasizing American concern for the humanitarian conditions in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Concurrently, Russia raised questions about Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's approach, suggesting that his pursuit of Western partnerships contributed to the situation. These developments point to a changing balance of influence in the region.

Historical Context of Nagorno-Karabakh

Understanding the historical context of Nagorno-Karabakh is essential in grasping the complexity of the conflict.

Over centuries, the region has seen control shift between Persians, Turks, Russians, Ottomans, and Soviets. The historical backdrop adds depth to the territorial disputes that persist today.

Casualties and Protests

In the wake of the recent operation, the human toll has become increasingly apparent. Reports suggest that more than 200 people were killed and 400 wounded. In response, protests have erupted, with many Armenians expressing dissatisfaction with their government's handling of the crisis.

Calls for Prime Minister Pashinyan's resignation highlight the challenges Armenia faces in the aftermath of the conflict.

Lastly, the Nagorno-Karabakh crisis remains a critical issue with profound implications for regional stability and international relations.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative that diplomatic efforts, humanitarian aid, and a comprehensive resolution process are pursued to address the immediate challenges and work toward a lasting peace in the South Caucasus.