Separatist Government of Nagorno-Karabakh Dissolves Amidst Mass Exodus, Leaving Ethnic Armenians in Limbo

 In a major development, the separatist government of Nagorno-Karabakh has declared that it will dissolve itself, leading to the end of the unrecognized republic by the end of the year. This comes after Azerbaijan launched a rapid offensive to regain control over the region and demanded the disarmament of Armenian troops and the disbandment of the separatist government.

The move was prompted by an agreement reached on September 20th to end the fighting, in which Azerbaijan will allow the "free, voluntary, and unhindered movement" of Nagorno-Karabakh residents to Armenia. As a result of the conflict and the subsequent developments, over half of Nagorno-Karabakh's population has already fled the region, according to Armenian officials.

Many of those who have left expressed feelings of hopelessness and uncertainty about their future. The dissolution of the government has dashed their hopes of returning to their homes, further exacerbating the already dire situation.

The mass exodus of ethnic Armenians from the region began on Sunday, with over 70,000 people, or more than half of Nagorno-Karabakh's population, fleeing to Armenia as of Thursday morning. The influx of refugees into Armenia continues unabated, with tens of thousands seeking safety and protection. The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia has a long history, dating back three decades.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Nagorno-Karabakh came under the control of ethnic Armenian forces, with the support of Armenia. However, during a six-week war in 2020, Azerbaijan gained control over parts of the region and surrounding territories that were previously claimed by Armenian forces.

Nagorno-Karabakh has been internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan's territory. The situation worsened in December when Azerbaijan blockaded the only road connecting Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia, accusing the Armenian government of using it for illicit weapons shipments.

The closure resulted in a severe shortage of basic necessities, such as food and fuel, for the people of Nagorno-Karabakh. Armenia disputed these allegations, arguing that the region could receive supplies through the Azerbaijani city of Aghdam. However, Nagorno-Karabakh authorities resisted this solution, fearing that it was a strategy by Azerbaijan to gain control over the region.

The blockade, coupled with Armenia's distancing from the conflict, weakened the position of ethnic Armenian forces in the region. They agreed to lay down their arms less than 24 hours after Azerbaijan launched its offensive. Talks have begun between Azerbaijani and Nagorno-Karabakh authorities on the process of reintegrating the region into Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijani authorities have pledged to respect the rights of ethnic Armenians in the region and restore supplies. However, many residents remain fearful of reprisals and have chosen to flee to Armenia. The only road link to Armenia quickly became congested with cars, causing a massive traffic jam on the winding mountain road. The situation remains uncertain for those who have chosen to stay in Nagorno-Karabakh. The fate of the region's ethnic Armenians is unclear, as Azerbaijani authorities urge them to stay and become