Dozens dead as clashes between Armenian and Azerbaijan forces continue

At least 25 people have died and several others were injured as clashes between Armenian and Azerbaijan forces continued over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

According to reports, fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijan forces continued on Monday morning with the deployment of heavy artillery on both sides.

The Armenian defence ministry reported fighting throughout the night, while Azerbaijan’s defence ministry said Armenian forces were shelling the town of Terter.

“Throughout night fights continued with various intensity. Early in the morning, the adversary resumed the offensive, using artillery, armored vehicles, incl “TOS” HFS Our units resist the adversary taking appropriate measures, causing significant losses of personnel and equipment,” the Armenian defence ministry said in a tweet.

As per an official release by Azerbaijan Army, it said, “As a result of the successful counter-attack operation carried out by the troops and units of the Azerbaijan Army, a number of occupied villages, strategic heights and advantageous areas were liberated. As a result of the military operation in the Fizuli-Jabrayil direction, Garakhanbeyli, Gervend, kend Horadiz, Yukhari Abdurrahmanli, Boyuk Marjanli and Nuzgar villages of Fizuli region, which have been under enemy occupation for many years, were liberated. Enemy posts located in the direction of Aghdara region and on the heights of Murov Mount range were destroyed and a number of important high grounds were taken under control. The combat operations continue.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan voiced support for Azerbaijan on Sunday, claiming that Armenia is “the biggest threat to peace and security in the region.”

“The Turkish nation continues to stand by its Azerbaijani brothers and sisters with all its means, as it has always done,” Erdogan said on Twitter.

Meanwhile, US State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus in an official statement said, “The U.S. is alarmed by reports of military action along the Line of Contact between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We extend our condolences to the families of those killed and injured. We remain committed to helping the sides achieve a peaceful settlement.”