The withdrawal of Russian peacekeepers from Artsakh is a direct result of an announcement made by Armenia, the signatory party of the ceasefire agreement on November 9. This indicates that the issue is being resolved between Moscow and Baku. During an interview with NEWS.am, Ashot Ghulyan, the former president of the National Assembly of Artsakh, revealed that the question of the return of the people of Artsakh is complicated due to the decision of Russian peacekeepers. Ghulyan stressed that negotiations regarding the departure of the peacekeepers did not take place, and that the return of the people of Artsakh is a topic being discussed by everyone except the authorities of Armenia.

Ghulyan also raised concerns about the actions of Russian peacekeepers in Azerbaijan, particularly in relation to ethnic cleansing. These actions further complicate the resolution of the issue, but ultimately, Ghulyan believes that the will of the people of Artsakh will determine the outcome.

Furthermore, Ghulyan noted that Russia is reducing its presence in the South Caucasus region. While the withdrawal of Russian peacekeepers from Artsakh is not mandatory and only represents a partial withdrawal of the entire group, it will undoubtedly have a negative political impact.

In summary, the withdrawal of Russian peacekeepers from Artsakh follows an announcement by Armenia. The return of the people of Artsakh is complicated by the decision of the peacekeepers, and negotiations regarding their departure did not occur. Concerns are expressed about the actions of Russian peacekeepers in Azerbaijan, which adds to the complexity of the situation. Overall, Russia’s reduced presence in the South Caucasus will have a negative political impact.