2020 Ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh: A Historic Agreement

Name: 2020 Ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh: A Historic Agreement
Start: 2020-11-10
Location: Unspecified

The Ceasefire Agreement: A Turning Point

Details of the Nagorno-Karabakh Ceasefire

The 2020 ceasefire marked a pivotal moment in the long-standing conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Signed on November 10, 2020, this agreement was facilitated by Russia and effectively halted more than a month of intense military engagements that had erupted in late September of the same year. The ceasefire was a notable attempt to restore peace and address the humanitarian crisis resulting from the violence.

Parties Involved in the Ceasefire

This historic ceasefire involved key stakeholders: Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the Russian Federation. Armenia and Azerbaijan had clashed over the contested region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which had been primarily populated by ethnic Armenians. The peace agreement's success hinged on international diplomatic efforts, showcasing Russia's influence in the region.

Background of the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

The Historical Context of the Conflict

The roots of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict date back to the early 20th century, stemming from ethnic tensions and territorial disputes during and after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The region declared independence in 1991, leading to a full-scale war that resulted in Armenian control. This conflict led to significant loss of life and displacement, setting the stage for renewed hostilities in 2020.

Military Engagements Leading to Ceasefire

In the lead-up to the ceasefire, both Armenia and Azerbaijan engaged in fierce military confrontations, with significant casualties reported on both sides. The fighting escalated beyond local confrontations, drawing international concern and calls for intervention. By November 2020, the humanitarian impact prompted urgent appeals for a ceasefire, ultimately leading to the agreement facilitated by Russia.

Fun Fact

Unusual Aspects of the Ceasefire Agreement

The ceasefire was unique as it also included provisions for the deployment of Russian peacekeepers to monitor compliance and safeguard its terms, reflecting a significant shift in the dynamics of security assurances in the region. This marked Russia's deeper involvement in the post-Soviet space and its role as a guarantor of peace.