US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the situation in the South Caucasus with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

"I spoke with  President of Azerbaijan on the importance of resolving regional conflicts and pursuing a path to peace in the South Caucasus. I thanked Azerbaijan for the support provided to Ukraine," Blinken tweeted.

According to the State Department, during the conversation, Blinken emphasized the continued importance of the bilateral partnership between the US and Azerbaijan and the US commitment to promoting a peaceful, democratic and prosperous future for the South Caucasus region.

Noting recent reports of escalation between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces, the Secretary of State urged the parties to exercise restraint and intensify diplomatic engagement to find comprehensive solutions to all outstanding issues. He also highlighted the importance of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Azerbaijan.

"The Secretary of State emphasized the commitment of the United States, along with other partners, to continue holding Moscow and its supporters, including the Lukashenko regime in Belarus, accountable for the Kremlin's unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine," the report said.