Armenia: U.S. says Azerbaijan must withdraw from Syunik

PanARMENIAN.Net - U.S. Presidential National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has told acting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan that Azerbajan's movements inside Armenia’s state borders are unacceptable, adding that the White House will convey the U.S. position to Azerbaijan.

According to a press release from Pashinyan's office, Sullivan said on Monday, May 17 that the American side will demand that Azerbaijan withdraw its troops from the Armenian territories.

Sullivan also praised the restraint shown by the Armenian side in the current situation and the steps aimed at settling issues through diplomatic means.

The White House National Security Adviser expressed concern over the Armenian captives still being held in Azerbaijan and stressed the need to have them repatriated as soon as possible.

On the morning of May 12, the armed forces of Azerbaijan violated the border of Armenia in the southern province of Syunik, advancing 3.5 kilometers and surrounding Sev Lake, which is situated on the border between the two countries but is predominantly a part of Armenia. On May 13, the Azerbaijani military committed more border violations against Armenia, advancing near Vardenis (Gegharkunik province) and Sisian (Syunik province).

The U.S. National Security Adviser appreciated the Armenian government’s commitment to strengthening democracy and assured that the United States will continue to support Armenia in advancing its democratic agenda.