On April 8, Russian President Vladimir Putin called the head of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.  As reported by the press services of both presidents, the parties discussed the situation around Nagorno-Karabakh, and further stabilization in accordance with the Statements of the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia dated November 9, 2020 and January 11, 2021, according to news agency Turan.

Turkey, a long-standing ally of ethnic kin Azerbaijan, helped the country develop its military over the past few years. Turkish armed forces officers trained and advised Azerbaijan units. Key was not only huge Azerbaijani investments in armaments by using its oil revenues – but also tactical advice.

These are truly momentous times in the history of the South Caucasus and all parties should be invested in saying “never again” to war and the destitution and violation of so many lives that result.

According to a senior official, Russia encouraged Armenia to use Iskandar missiles and provided material support for their launch, in order to compel Azerbaijan, which was capturing territory at a fast rate, to give the ceasefire a chance.

The World Bank forecasts an economic recovery in the South Caucasus and in Central Asia this year, with further growth expected in 2022.

What is next? Can we and our neighbours – the Armenians – ever get over the bad blood and live together as it was before? Many don’t believe that it is possible, but I have some hope.