Moscow doesn't view Karabakh as tool of pressure on AzerbaijanMay 7, 2008 - 18:11 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Presently, the Russia is not deciding "to be or not to be" in the South Caucasus, chairman of Mitq analytical center, historian Eduard Abrahamyan said in an interview with PanARMENIAN.Net "Moscow has been trying to strengthen its influence in the region so far. The point is that Russia has two tools of pressure in Georgia and none in Azerbaijan. It's quite obvious that the Kremlin has for a long time Karabakh as a pressing factor. Now, due to Artsakh's complete isolation from Azerbaijan, the situation has changed," he said. "Possibly, national tensions in north of Azerbaijan and Baku's aggressive policy toward Dagestani-speaking population can offer Moscow a chance for creating an alternative factor. However, Russia's unawareness of mentality and capabilities of North Caucasus nations often resulted in paralyzing of ethnic problems. This problem may be viewed as omission by Armenia, which in the course of 15 years made no effort to convince Moscow of its determination to finally resolve the "Azeri issue". Today, in the light of the U.S.-Turkey tensions, some Russian forces speak out for stabilization of relations with Ankara," he said. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Pasadena to host Armenian Genocide commemoration event The Pasadena Armenian Coalition will host its community-wide Armenian Genocide Commemorative Event. Armenia: Opposition activist transferred to Investigative Committee Activist Samvel Vardanyan has been accused of insulting the lawmaker Hakob Aslanyan from the ruling Civil Contract party. Former Pashinyan envoy urges end to Genocide speculation Marukyan has urged authorities in Armenia stop discussions about verifying the names of 1.5 million victims. Azerbaijan, Jordan sign deal on defense cooperation Azerbaijan and Jordan have signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of defense, according to an official statement. |