The World Council of Churches has slammed the destruction of religious heritage in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). It has noted about this in a statement which reads as follows, in particular:

The most severe escalation [of tension in the Karabakh conflict zone] since 2016 has been taking place since September, with many civilian casualties. Holy Savior Cathedral in the city of Shushi was also badly damaged in one of those bombings.

It is worrying that Russia and Turkey are also getting involved in the fight. Turkey in particular supports Azerbaijan, reportedly also with troops and military equipment. Also worrying is that Azerbaijan has previously threatened to bomb a nuclear power plant in Armenia. This could cause a nuclear disaster with disastrous consequences in this region of the Caucasus.

Both the United Nations and the European Union are urging both countries to cease armed struggle and open peace talks. Russia could play a mediating role here between Armenia and Azerbaijan/Turkey.

The World Council of Churches also urges an end to hostilities and peace negotiations begin, if possible with the support of the Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE). As the Council of Churches, we support these international calls for a ceasefire and negotiations. We also condemn the destruction of cultural and religious heritage.