Armenians in Cyprus protest, call for Russia's pressure on Azerbaijan

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenians of Cyprus have protested outside the Russian Embassy in Nicosia calling on Moscow to continue exerting pressure on Azerbaijan to terminate hostilities and release prisoners of war, In-Cyprus reports.

Head of the Armenian National Committee of Cyprus Hagop Kazandjian said on Wednesday, June 2 that they want the Russian government to take action since the return of the prisoners of war is a purely humanitarian issue. And that there is no room for blackmail or petty political tactics.

A petition also said that they demonstrated against the ongoing threats and intervention of Azerbaijan in the sovereign rights of Armenia as well.

Armenians all over the world feel that Russia's role as a strategic partner and guarantor of Armenia`s sovereign rights is being challenged, the petition added.

“We urge you to continue to exert pressure on Turkey and Azerbaijan, the expansionist goals of which are being extended from the Aegean Sea, the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East to Caucasus,” it also said.

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). One Armenian serviceman was killed in Azerbaijan’s shooting on May 25, while six others were captured on May 27.