Azerbaijan launched its largest military operation against Armenia since the 2020 war, with attacks along multiple sections of the international border resulting in over 200 deaths and threatening to spiral into full-scale conflict.
Massive Escalation
The overnight assault began at 00:05 local time:
- Artillery strikes on 36 Armenian settlements
- Drone attacks deep inside Armenian territory
- Ground forces advanced in Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor, Syunik
- Cities of Goris, Kapan, Jermuk shelled
- 135 Armenian soldiers killed, 84 Azerbaijani
This represents the first major attack on internationally recognized Armenian territory, not disputed Nagorno-Karabakh.
Civilian Impact
Civilian casualties and damage:
- 3 civilians killed, dozens wounded
- 2,700 residents evacuated from border areas
- Jermuk resort town heavily damaged
- Critical infrastructure targeted
- Schools and hospitals hit
International Alarm
The attack on sovereign Armenian territory triggered urgent diplomacy:
US Response
“We urge an immediate end to hostilities. Attacks on Armenian sovereign territory are unacceptable.” - Secretary Blinken
Russian Position
Despite CSTO obligations, Russia’s response was muted:
- Called for ceasefire through diplomatic channels
- No mention of military assistance
- Cited ongoing Ukraine operations
EU Emergency Meeting
EU foreign ministers convened emergency session:
- Condemned “unjustified aggression”
- Discussed potential sanctions
- Offered mediation services
Military Analysis
The operation appeared designed to:
- Pressure Armenia into corridor concessions
- Test Russian security guarantees
- Exploit Russia’s Ukraine distraction
- Establish new facts on ground
Armenian forces managed to halt advances after initial shock, but concerns remain about ammunition supplies and air defense gaps.
Fragile Ceasefire
A Russian-brokered ceasefire took effect at 20:00, but both sides reported violations within hours. The escalation marks a dangerous new phase in the conflict, with Armenia’s territorial integrity now directly threatened.