October 10, 2019 - 10:16 AMT
Armenia condemns Turkey's "military invasion" of Syria

Armenia condemns the military invasion by Turkey in north-east Syria, which would lead to deterioration of regional security, losses among civilians, mass displacement and eventually to a new humanitarian crisis, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Thursday, October 10.

The Ministry cited the plight of ethnic and religious minorities as an issue of particular concern.

"This military invasion also creates an imminent threat of identity based grave and massive violations of human rights," the statement read.

"Armenia calls for effective international measures aimed at halting this military invasion, preventing mass atrocities and protecting the population of Syria bordering Turkey.

"Armenia supports the unity and sovereignty of Syria and urges to refrain from military offensive against Syria and its people. Armenia will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to the friendly people of Syria on the ground."

Turkey has begun its military offensive into northeastern Syria to force back Kurdish militants controlling the border area, days after President Donald Trump said the U.S. wouldn’t stand in the way.