The Military and Territorial Situation in May 1994

At the time of the ceasefire, Armenian forces held most of the former Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast.

They also controlled extensive territory outside it, including the Lachin corridor and large parts of the seven surrounding districts.

Azerbaijan retained control of some territories claimed by the self-proclaimed Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, including areas in the north and east.

The line of contact became a heavily militarized boundary.

Armenian leaders regarded the outcome as a victory that had prevented the subjugation or expulsion of Nagorno-Karabakh's Armenian population.

The existence of a land connection with Armenia was considered essential to the region's security.

The self-proclaimed Nagorno-Karabakh Republic established de facto governing institutions, armed forces, and administrative structures.

It remained dependent on Armenia for economic, political, and military support.

Azerbaijan regarded the outcome as a military defeat and the occupation of a substantial portion of its internationally recognized territory.

The displacement of Azerbaijani civilians became a central national issue.

Azerbaijan demanded the withdrawal of Armenian forces, the restoration of its territorial integrity, and the right of displaced citizens to return.

The unresolved territorial question became a major element of Azerbaijani domestic and foreign policy.

Despite the Armenian military victory, Nagorno-Karabakh did not receive international recognition as an independent state.

The United Nations and other international organizations continued to recognize the territory as part of Azerbaijan.

This distinction between military control and internationally recognized sovereignty remained fundamental to the conflict.