In his interview to “Haylur” news program, aired on the Armenian Public Television, ARM Minister of Defence Seyran Ohanyan talked about the cases of armistice violations by Azerbaijan, about the activeness of snipers, as well as about the organizational work for the spring recruitment.
In answer to the question whether it is true that the armistice regime allowed Azerbaijan avoid serious casualties, win time and prepare for future military adventures, while but for the armistice regime, the Armenian side could have had greater achievements, Seyran Ohanyan particularly said, “To be able to correctly evaluate from professional point of view, we should first of all understand the task that the Artsakh Armed Forces had, and how that task was solved. The Freedom Fight of Artsakh was not meant for taking over the whole Azerbaijan – it was meant for freeing Artsakh, ensure security for the people of Artsakh, and force the rival to peace. I think it is obvious that this task was fully realized. As a lawful example of democratic society, today the people of Artsakh are ensuring its progress. As for Azerbaijan winning time, I believe one should be naive to think that this time was useful for Azerbaijan only.”
Talking about the rival’s saboteur activities and armistice violations, the Minister stated, “I think, by such activities the politico-military authorities of Azerbaijan are trying to break the stereotype of a looser among their militants, indeed, also trying to have an impact on the Armenian public. However, these activities allow the Armenian public and Army to unite and act decisively. Of course, these activities also have internal and external political motives.”
Talking about the activeness of Azerbaijani snipers, which result in the deaths of Armenian militants and peaceful dwellers, Seyran Ohanyan stated, “The so called ‘sniper war’ does not give any tactical advantage to either of the sides. The sniper activities are fully responded. However, because recently these activities have become subject to broad discussions by our public, once again would I like to repeat that these activities are answered by implementing irrespective punishments. This means that they are punished by a couple of times more casualties. Whereas, the Azerbaijani media present that to their public in ‘their way’. Nevertheless, the sniper activities of the rival are obvious violations of the agreements reached in the negotiation process, and ought to receive a relevant evaluation from the international community. With such activities, they want to keep the situation on the contact line constantly tense and to influence on the negotiation process.”
The Minister of Defence also talked about the spring recruitment process. He particularly stared that reforms were made regarding the distribution of conscripts, medical examination, and improving the structure of medical committees. “The relevant mechanisms are created to allow us realize internal and external control over the recruitment process. Today the recruitment process is controlled not only by the Ministry of Defence, but also by the Security Council, law enforcement bodies, and civil society structure. Also, a precise mechanism for inquiries and complains is operating – for inquiries, complains and clarifications citizens can turn to the Public Council adjunct to the Minister of Defence, as well as call 1-88 phone of trust number.”
The Minister of Defence wished the National Army conscript young men an excellent, secure and brave service, and to their parents – patience and pride, because their sons are enlisted to the noble idea of ensuring the protection of the Motherland.