Armenia Considers Concessions to Azerbaijan in Border Dispute

Armenian Prime Minister Signals Potential Withdrawal from Villages

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian has signaled a willingness to consider Azerbaijan’s demands for the withdrawal of Armenian forces from four villages along the border. This move has sparked concern from opposition groups who fear it weakens Armenia’s position and strategic infrastructure.

Background of the Dispute

The villages in question were under Azerbaijani control during the Soviet era but were occupied by Armenia in the early 1990s. Azerbaijan demands their return, while Armenia has previously linked potential concessions to the return of Armenian territory seized by Azerbaijan in recent years.

Pashinian’s Position

Pashinian argues that the villages were never officially part of Armenia and has called for rerouting vital transportation and energy infrastructure away from the disputed areas. He has not insisted on reciprocal concessions from Azerbaijan.

Opposition Concerns

Opposition groups see Pashinian’s statements as a sign of potential concessions without gaining anything in return. They fear this would leave Armenia’s strategic infrastructure vulnerable and open other Armenian villages to isolation and further Azerbaijani attacks.

Uncertain Future

Pashinian’s government faces pressure from both sides: Azerbaijan pushing for territorial concessions and Armenian opposition wary of concessions without guarantees. The situation remains fluid, and it’s unclear how the border dispute will be resolved.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert