Armenian contract soldier killed in fresh Azerbaijani provocation
A contract serviceman of the Armenian Armed Forces has been killed in a fresh provocation by Azerbaijan on the state border on Wednesday.
Junior Sergeant Hovik Tamazyan suffered fatal gunshot and shrapnel wounds in a northeastern military position, the Defense Ministry said in a statement, adding a probe is underway.
According to the statement, in recent days Azerbaijan has become active in the northeastern section of the border and has tried to carry out reinforcement works, further escalating border tensions.
"In order to suppress the adversary’s activity and prevent further escalations, the frontline units of the Armenian Armed Forces were forced to take appropriate retaliatory measures,” the statement said.
The ministry shares the heavy grief of the loss, extending its condolences to the family and fellow servicemen of the deceased.
“The entire responsibility for the current situation and the escalation of border tensions lies with the military-political leadership of Azerbaijan," the statement added.