The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia has issued a statement, which reads:

“On 14 July, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces launched a provocative advance near the Yeraskh settlement of the Republic of Armenia, as a result of which Samvel Gagik Alaverdyan, a contract soldier of the Republic of Armenia, was fatally shot by a sniper. We express our deep condolences and support to the family members and relatives of the deceased soldier.

These provocative actions after the infiltration of the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia, Syunik and Gegharkunik provinces, by the units of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, clearly show that official Baku is trying to create new hotbeds of tension, undermining regional peace and security.

We strongly condemn this encroachment on the Republic of Armenia, which is also a gross violation of the fundamental principles of international law.

Such actions by the military-political leadership of Azerbaijan may lead to further aggravation of the situation, for which the Azerbaijani authorities are fully responsible.”