U.S. says Azerbaijan's "provocative" advancement into Armenia should endMay 15, 2021 - 10:42 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The United States Department of State has described Azerbaijan's advancement into Armenia's territory as "irresponsible" and "unnecessarily provocative". Principal Deputy Spokesperson Jalina Porter said the State Department is closely monitoring the situation along the demarked border between Armenia and Azerbaijan. "Military movements in disputed territories are irresponsible, and they’re also unnecessarily provocative," Porter said. "Of course we’ve seen the reports of some withdrawal and would welcome that, if confirmed, but we expect Azerbaijan to pull back all forces immediately and cease further provocation." Porter said the U.S. has also urged "both sides" to approach demarcation issues through discussion as well as negotiation. On the morning of May 12, the armed forces of Azerbaijan violated the border of Armenia in the southern province of Syunik, advancing 3.5 kilometers and surrounding Sev Lake, which is situated on the border between the two countries but is predominantly a part of Armenia. On May 13, the Azerbaijani military committed more border violations against Armenia, advancing near Vardenis (Gegharkunik province) and Sisian (Syunik province). Top stories The EU does not intend to conduct military exercises with Armenia, Lead Spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano says. A telephone conversation between Putin and Pashinyan before the CSTO summit is not planned, Peskov says. London’s Armenian community has been left feeling “under attack” after the city’s Genocide monument was vandalised. The United States believes there should be an international mission to provide transparency. Partner news | Turkey extends military presence in Azerbaijan The Turkish parliament has adopted a bill submitted by Recep Tayyip Erdogan to extend the mandate of Turkish troops. Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills Armenian, Saudi Foreign Minister meet in Riyadh The two commended the positive dynamics of the development of political dialogue between Armenia and Saudi Arabia Pashinyan: Azerbaijan’s proximity shouldn’t worry border residents At the same time, he said that he “does not guarantee [the security of villagers] one hundred percent”. |