Armenia General Staff: Azeris create tension, but don't attempt to advance

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Azerbaijani Armed Forces are not making any attempts to advance into the territory of Armenia, Deputy Chief of the Army General Staff Andranik Makaryan told reporters on Tuesday, August 17.

Makaryan confirmed, however, that the situation on the border remains tense, Sputnik Armenia reports. “Our task is to be ready to suppress [the adversary] at any moment, he said.

Weighing in on tough statements coming from Defense Minister Arshak Karapetyan, Makaryan noted that Karapetyan's words should be taken literally. The Defense Minister earlier gave "strict instructions" to rule out any attempt by Azerbaijan to advance into the country or improve their positions

Asked about the deployment of the Russian military on the border, as well as the supply of weapons, the deputy head of the General Staff said he did not know the details.

Azerbaijani forces violated Armenia’s border in several sections in the provinces of Syunik and Gegharkunik on May 12 and 13 and are still refusing to withdraw their troops from the area. Five Armenian servicemen have been killed in Azerbaijan’s shooting, a dozen others have been wounded, while six troops were captured on May 27, although four of them have already returned home.