The Role of Armenia During the War

The Republic of Armenia's involvement was central to the conflict, although its precise form changed over time.

Armenia provided Nagorno-Karabakh with political support, humanitarian assistance, volunteers, military equipment, and logistical resources.

As the war developed, Armenia's involvement became more direct.

Human Rights Watch documented the participation of Armenian regular army personnel and conscripts in fighting in and around Nagorno-Karabakh, particularly by late 1993 and early 1994.

The government of Armenia at times characterized the conflict primarily as a struggle between the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan.

However, the evidence of direct Armenian military involvement is an essential part of the historical record.

Armenia's security concerns

Armenian officials argued that military support was necessary to prevent the expulsion or destruction of Nagorno-Karabakh's Armenian population.

The Sumgait and Baku pogroms, Operation Ring, and the bombardment of Stepanakert were frequently cited as evidence of the danger.

Armenia also faced fighting and artillery attacks along portions of its internationally recognized border with Azerbaijan.

The Armenian government viewed the conflict as an immediate national security issue.

The political leadership of Levon Ter-Petrosyan

President Levon Ter-Petrosyan played an important role in Armenian wartime diplomacy.

His government had to balance public support for Karabakh Armenians with the economic and military limitations of a newly independent state.

Armenia was experiencing severe economic disruption, energy shortages, and transportation difficulties.

The government also faced the challenge of integrating refugees and developing state institutions after decades of Soviet administration.

These pressures influenced Armenian decision-making throughout the war.