Ruben Vardanyan: 'We will never give up on Artsakh, no matter how much they try to tighten the ring around us'

The former State Minister of Artsakh, Ruben Vardanyan, wrote on his Facebook page: “Seven years ago around this time, Azerbaijan once again committed aggression against Artsakh. During the Four-Day War, many devoted individuals sacrificed their lives, once again demonstrating that Artsakh is our homeland, a stronghold, and that it has been and must remain Armenian. No words we choose to express our gratitude and humility towards our boys who sacrificed their lives for this land will ever be sufficient. Their sacrifice was for the idea that we and our children should live on this land, safe and free.

Unfortunately, we do not appreciate our struggle; we do not draw significant conclusions from our mistakes and omissions. Important discussions become mere political manipulation, devaluing our struggle, resistance, and self-sacrifice. During the April war, both before and after, our self-sacrificing boys laid down their lives for the idea of ensuring a dignified and free life for future generations. Only by showing sufficient will, acting wisely, understanding the significance of the struggle, and learning from our mistakes can we become stronger. Unnecessary assessments only complicate the situation, making us even more vulnerable.

I know one thing: each of us today can prove through action, stubborn will, and exceptional dedication that we are capable of continuing their resistance and struggle, that we will never give up on Artsakh, no matter how much they try to tighten the ring around us. Glory and honor to our soldiers who dedicated their lives for the homeland; we must create a strong and secure Artsakh for them and our future generations.