While negotiations are underway to discuss the reintegration of the secessionist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh into Azerbaijan, gunfire was heard on Thursday in Stepanakert, the capital of the Armenian separatists. The origin of this gunfire remains unknown at this stage, raising concerns about the evolving situation in the region.
The city of Stepanakert, at the heart of the conflict between Azerbaijan and the Armenian separatists in Nagorno-Karabakh, witnessed gunfire on Thursday, casting a shadow over the ongoing talks aimed at resolving the complex situation in this region. Gunshots were reported at around 12:15 local time (08:15 GMT), according to an AFP correspondent on the scene.
The source of this gunfire remains unclear, and it is currently impossible to determine responsibility. However, this escalation of violence comes at a critical moment, as negotiations for the reintegration of Nagorno-Karabakh into Azerbaijan have been ongoing for several months. These talks aim to end decades of territorial conflict in the region.
Nagorno-Karabakh saw intense clashes in 2020, leading to a mediated ceasefire, but the situation remains fragile. The presence of Russian troops as peacekeeping forces has helped to quell hostilities, but tensions persist.
Thursday’s incident underscores the fragility of the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and the need for a lasting agreement to end the conflict. As negotiations continue, it is imperative that all parties exercise restraint and commit to peace.
