The Nagorno Karabakh Republic Defense Minister dispelled concerns over recent reports of Russia’s sale of weaponry to Azerbaijan.

“Azeri purchase of military hardware is mostly aimed to impress local population ahead of elections,” Movses Hakobyan said.

“Despite Azeri intentions to cause a stir in Armenia, we’re working to preserve regional balance. The situation is under control,” the official stated, assuring that the Azeri arm race won’t affect the Nagorno Karabakh Republic’s safety.