End of an Era: Nagorno-Karabakh's Fate Sealed by President's Declaration for January 2024

The president of the ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh, Samvel Shahramanyan, issued a decree on Thursday that effectively dissolves the self-proclaimed republic. Shahramanyan's decree states that all institutions and organizations of the state, which lacks international recognition, must dissolve by January 1, 2024.

"The Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) ceases to exist," stated the decree shared on Facebook by the government of the "Republic of Artsakh."

According to Shahramanyan, the decision was prompted by the challenging military-political conditions, with the primary focus being the physical security of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh. Additionally, it is based on the agreements made with Azerbaijan to ensure the unobstructed movement of the Nagorno-Karabakh population, including the militants who have surrendered their weapons, along with their property and transportation, through the Lachin corridor."

Over the past few days, a significant portion of Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian population has departed the enclave for Armenia. The exodus came in response to Azerbaijan's military assault and their assertion of complete dominion over the secessionist territory, which occurred last week. This is an ongoing news story, and further updates will be provided.

Aren Melikyan contributed reporting.