The presence of artillery in the direction of Vardenis town of Armenia is directly linked to the movement and release of additional forces and means by the Azerbaijani armed forces, which has caused a certain tension, Armenia's Ministry of Defense (MOD) informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

It added that steps taken by the Armenian side after the deployment of additional Azerbaijani artillery and anti-aircraft weapons in the given zone are solely defensive.

The actions of the Armenian side do not aim to strain the situation.

In the event that the Azerbaijani side withdraws the aforementioned means from the given direction, the Armenian side will also withdraw its additional means.

The Armenian side is ready to negotiate on this matter, the MOD added.