Former Defense Minister of Armenia Condemns Military Unpreparedness and Calls for Action Following Azerbaijani Aggression

"It is unacceptable when the opponent announces intentions in advance, but you are not prepared. Azerbaijan understands only the language of force. I will believe the words of the ruling regime in Armenia about the achievements of the military-industrial complex only when the opponent receives a blow in the nose after today's events." - Seyran Ohanyan

In response to the recent aggression from Azerbaijan, Seyran Ohanyan, the head of the National Assembly "Armenia" faction and former Defense Minister of Armenia, emphasized the need for the current Ministry of Defense of Armenia to reassess its approach and take preventive measures. Speaking on February 13, Ohanyan stressed the importance of both adequate and, if necessary, inadequate responses to ensure national security.

Ohanyan, who served as Defense Minister for eight years, criticized the lack of preparedness within the Armenian forces, pointing out that Azerbaijan had been conducting an information campaign in the days leading up to the aggression. He argued that in such situations, troops should be adequately instructed to implement preventive measures, enhance camouflage, and tighten requirements for combat duty tasks and engineering work.

"It is unacceptable when the opponent announces intentions in advance, but you are not prepared. Azerbaijan understands only the language of force. In this case, the principle 'force begets right' should be applied," Ohanyan asserted. He called for official investigations to identify those responsible for the tactical situation.

Highlighting that the Azerbaijani firing originated from areas gained during the 2022 aggression, Ohanyan expressed skepticism about the Armenian government's claims of military achievements. "I will believe the words of the ruling regime in Armenia about the achievements of the military-industrial complex only when the opponent receives a blow in the nose after today's events," he remarked.

Ohanyan attributed the ongoing challenges to the political leadership's focus on projecting a peaceful agenda while neglecting critical issues in Syunik. He specifically criticized the lack of attention to engineering works on the front line and army preparedness. According to Ohanyan, the leadership's daily, peaceful approach contrasts with the urgency of securing the country.

He concluded by pointing out the need for a realistic assessment of Azerbaijan's intentions, emphasizing that the political leadership's pursuit of a peaceful agenda might be illusory. Ohanyan stressed the pressing issue of the so-called corridor, suggesting that Azerbaijan's actions in Syunik are a consequence of this unresolved matter.