The EU faces criticism from ethnic Armenians fleeing the Nagorno-Karabakh region amidst a humanitarian crisis, accusing it of failing as a mediator. Over 50,000 Armenians have crossed into Armenia, escaping the rapid advance of Azerbaijan’s army. The EU’s hesitance to sanction Azerbaijan, a key natural gas supplier, undermines its position as a regional peacemaker.
Key Points:
- More than half of Nagorno-Karabakh’s residents, over 50,000 people, have fled due to the Azerbaijan army’s advance, marking a diplomatic failure for the EU which attempted to mediate the crisis.
- Armenians criticize the EU, and particularly figures like European Council President Charles Michel, for their apparent inaction and silence amidst the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.
- Despite a call for sanctions against Azerbaijan by over 60 MEPs due to alleged human rights abuses, the EU is reluctant to impose them, largely attributed to Azerbaijan’s role as a “crucial” partner on natural gas supply.
- The EU’s involvement in the South Caucasus is seen as an effort to mitigate Russia’s influence in the region. However, the EU’s seeming inability to provide tangible support or solutions has led to a loss of faith among Armenians.
- Azerbaijan remains confident that it won’t face significant backlash from the EU, emphasizing the absence of a clear rationale behind calls for sanctions and the suspension of the bloc’s gas deal with Baku.
