Azerbaijan Violates Ceasefire, Fires at Artsakh Capital Stepanakert

Explosions of artillery shells heard through the air at approximately 11:40 am on Thursday, shaking the vicinity of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) capital, Stepanakert. Preliminary reports indicate that at least three distinct explosions were heard, raising concerns over the stability of the region.

The Azerbaijani Armed Forces were identified as the source of the disturbances, having unleashed a barrage of firepower from positions located near Stepanakert. The incident represents a grave breach of the ceasefire agreement that had been painstakingly negotiated just a day earlier. The Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Artsakh swiftly reported this alarming development.

In response to the escalating situation, a public announcement was issued, urging the residents of Stepanakert to prioritize their safety. The message stated, "Dear compatriots, Azerbaijani armed forces are currently violating the ceasefire by launching gunfire from areas in close proximity to Stepanakert. Gunshots can also be heard within the city center. For safety reasons, we strongly urge everyone to remain in shelters. Additional updates on the situation will be provided shortly."

Thousands of people are displaced, hundreds killed and injured, 120,000 citizens are starving and facing the danger of ethnic cleansing as Azerbaijan continues to target innocent civilians.