Russian Troops To Land In Karabakh Airport
Naira Hayrumyan
11:49 04/03/2013
Story from Lragir.am News:
On March 12 Serzh Sargsyan will leave for Moscow to meet with Vladimir
Putin. Among the issues which, according to the press, will be
discussed, there is one relating to the CSTO and the airport of
Stepanakert.
This is a very interesting combination and it appears that both issues
will be discussed in the same context. It is possible that the
airborne troops mentioned by General Shamanov will be deployed in
Stepanakert airport.
In his congratulatory message to Serzh Sargsyan President Barack Obama
said that American investors are willing to invest in Armenia and are
looking for a favorable climate. Obviously, the United States has
decided to establish closer relations with Armenia through boosting
investment. And Russia understands that they will have nothing more
powerful than the traditional natural gas price to offer in exchange.
Probably, the airport of Stepanakert was identified as such a step. By
the way, Barack Obama stated in his congratulatory message that it is
necessary to take up steps towards the Karabakh settlement. It is
possible that the U.S. prepares steps to operate the airport for which
it intends to give the necessary guarantees. In response, Russia
promised an airborne landing as it did in Serbia. Although this time
the U.S. and Russia may have agreed on joint use of the airport.
Apparently, on March 12 Serzh Sargsyan will have to answer these
proposals in Moscow. The opening of Stepanakert airport will not mean
much for civil flights but the airport could acquire huge strategic
importance for the United States and Russia. The U.S. could use it as
a transit point for NATO troops, and it will enable Russia to send its
troops to Karabakh.
Stepanakert airport would change drastically the status quo in
Karabakh. First, it would mean that the threats of Turkey and
Azerbaijan are not taken seriously, and the factor of force settlement
of the conflict will disappear. Second, the operation of Stepanakert
airport will mean recognition of the independence of Karabakh. Third,
it will change completely the regional policy and could lead to
opening of borders.
However, the entry of foreign forces in Karabakh will mean that all
the initiatives will move from the Armenian side to the other, and the
political decisions will be made already at gunpoint of foreign
machines.
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
Disclaimer: This article was contributed and translated into English by Emil Lazarian. While we strive for quality, the views and accuracy of the content remain the responsibility of the contributor. Please verify all facts independently before reposting or citing.
Direct link to this article: https://www.armenianclub.com/2013/03/05/russian-troops-to-land-in-karabakh-airport/
