Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has asserted that the Nagorno-Karabakh Army did not engage in combat during the September 2023 offensive that resulted in the region’s surrender. Citing intelligence data, Pashinyan claimed the narrative of “fighting to the end” was a “myth.” This statement was delivered during his weekly press briefing. Despite this assertion, the Pashinyan government confirmed that the one-day operation caused 223 fatalities, including 25 civilian casualties, and wounded 244 individuals.
Azerbaijan reported 205 casualties and over 511 injuries. The outcomes of this conflict were subsequently analyzed during a Security Council meeting, according to Pashinyan. He noted that, “Without being able to disclose much, I want to note that claims about fighting and so on are, to put it mildly, not consistent with reality, because according to data available to our intelligence, and not only intelligence, the vast majority of the available weapons and ammunition, perhaps 80% or even 90%, remained untouched.” Images circulated on social media depicting weapons sounds.
The claims have faced criticism, particularly given the confirmed casualties and the enlistment of Kamo Vardanyan, the last commander of the Nagorno-Karabakh Army. Opposition MP Tigran Abrahamyan suggested either Pashinyan was deliberately manipulating through disinformation or that he strategically appointed “runaways” to the army. Pashinyan also apologized for calling Nagorno-Karabakh Armenians “runaways” following an incident.
With the complete exodus of the population, many are reflecting on their departure. The road to Goris is filled with vehicles carrying possessions. During the press briefing, Pashinyan announced a potential second referendum on the Armenian Constitution if the initial one fails, emphasizing his commitment to honest communication with the public.
He intends to showcase military equipment acquired since 2022 during a Republic Day event, aiming to reassure the international community that this display does not represent a rejection of the peace agenda. Pashinyan’s statements regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the future constitution continue to be a point of contention, particularly concerning the references to the Declaration of Independence, which Azerbaijan demands be altered. The situation remains complex, with the events of September continuing to shape the political landscape.
Topics: #pashinyan #september #nagorno
Nikol Pashinyan insists the Nagorno-Karabakh military didn’t resist Azerbaijan’s September 2023 operation.
Nikol Pashinyan insists the Nagorno-Karabakh military did not resist Azerbaijan’s September 2023 operation, which led to the territory’s handover. He stated that intelligence indicated the portrayal o