The Daily Lessons From an Unending Conflict
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Nov 1, 2023 Andrew Higgins, the New York Times bureau chief for East and Central Europe, provides deep insights into the sudden and brutal end of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He discusses the long-standing roots of tension between Azerbaijan and Armenia, likening it to the Israeli-Palestinian situation. Higgins highlights how unexpected military action led to a significant resolution and a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians. He also examines the implications of geopolitical shifts, including Russia's waning influence, on these seemingly intractable disputes.
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Pogrom in Baku
- Gorbachev pleaded with Armenians and Azerbaijanis to remain Soviet citizens and avoid conflict.
- However, tensions escalated, leading to a pogrom in Baku where Armenians were targeted.
Hojali Massacre
- Nagorno-Karabakh held deep significance for Armenians, containing ancient churches.
- The Hojali massacre, where Armenians killed hundreds of Azerbaijanis, intensified the conflict.
Initial Military Imbalance
- Initially, Armenia possessed a more organized and effective military than Azerbaijan.
- By 1994, Armenia controlled Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding Azerbaijani territory.