Costa Introduces Resolution Calling for De-escalation of Violence in Artsakh

Press Release

Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) released the following statement upon introducing a resolution to condemn Azeri aggression in Artsakh, denounce Turkey's involvement in the conflict and call for an immediate return to the 1994 cease-fire agreement:

"We cannot sit idly by while this conflict continues to escalate and Armenian lives are further endangered," said Costa. "Azerbaijan's actions are deplorable and in violation of international agreements that have helped preserve peace and stability in the region. This resolution shows our support for the Armenian people and underlines the importance of returning to the negotiating table to prevent further bloodshed."

Sunday, Sept. 27, Azerbaijan launched a military operation against Artsakh, violating the cease-fire agreement and resulting in the deaths of at least 84 ethnic Armenian soldiers. Reports have also noted that Turkish-affiliated forces have also been deployed to the border, further threatening regional stability. This resolution shows strong support for the Armenian people by condemning Azerbaijan's military operations, denouncing Turkey's involvement in escalating the conflict, and calling for the immediate return to the 1994 ceasefire agreement.

Congressman Costa also sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urging the State Department to employ all available diplomatic tools to calm tensions, stop the violence and prevent Azerbaijan from further escalating the conflict in the future.

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