Mass protests against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan have rocked Yerevan in recent days, as tensions continue to escalate between Armenia and its neighboring country. The protests, which have drawn thousands of demonstrators to the streets of the Armenian capital, highlight the deep-seated anger and frustration among many Armenians over the government’s handling of the conflict over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh.
The protests were sparked by reports that Armenia had agreed to cede control of several villages in the region to Azerbaijan as part of a ceasefire agreement brokered by Russia. The agreement, which was signed in November following weeks of intense fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces, has been met with widespread condemnation in Armenia, where many see it as a betrayal of their national interests.
The protesters, who have been waving Armenian flags and chanting slogans denouncing the government, are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, whom they accuse of capitulating to Azerbaijan and failing to protect Armenia’s territorial integrity. Pashinyan, for his part, has defended the ceasefire agreement as a necessary step to end the bloodshed and prevent further loss of life.
The unrest in Yerevan comes amid a broader political crisis in Armenia, where Pashinyan’s government has faced mounting criticism over its handling of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The protests have also exposed deep divisions within Armenian society, with some accusing the government of incompetence and others expressing support for Pashinyan’s efforts to bring about peace in the region.
The situation in Armenia is further complicated by the presence of Russian peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh, who are tasked with overseeing the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. While Russia’s intervention has helped to prevent further violence in the region, it has also raised concerns about Moscow’s growing influence in the South Caucasus and its impact on Armenia’s sovereignty.
As the protests in Yerevan continue to escalate, there are fears that the political crisis could spiral out of control and lead to further instability in the region. The international community has called for calm and urged all parties to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully.
In the meantime, Armenia’s future remains uncertain, with many questioning the government’s ability to navigate the country through these turbulent times. The protests in Yerevan serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Armenia and its people as they grapple with the aftermath of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and strive to build a more stable and prosperous future.
As tensions simmer in Yerevan, it is clear that the road ahead for Armenia will be fraught with challenges and uncertainties. The protests against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan are a reflection of the deep-seated emotions and grievances that continue to divide Armenian society. Only time will tell whether Armenia can overcome these divisions and emerge stronger from this latest crisis.