The Hayastan parliamentary faction has sent an open letter to U.S. Vice President James David Vance, who is scheduled to arrive in Armenia on February 9.

“We expect your active involvement in securing the return of at least 19 of our compatriots illegally held in Baku, including the former political and military leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh,” the letter reads.

The authors note that Vance’s visit is taking place amid significant internal and external challenges facing the Armenian people.

“The Armenian authorities are unlawfully undermining the sovereignty and independence of the Church,” the letter states.

They clarify that by informing Vance about Armenia’s internal political landscape, they are not calling for any foreign interference.

“Preserving the independence of Armenia’s political processes and preventing interference from any geopolitical center is a core priority for the Armenian opposition,” the statement continues.

“The restoration of democratic order in Armenia is an internal matter, and the opposition is committed to achieving it.”

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance is expected to arrive in Armenia on February 9 and travel to Azerbaijan the following day.