In recent times, as we all know, the situation is tense; we can describe it as "stable tense." Deputy Minister of Defense Arman Sargsyan told this to reporters Tuesday in the National Assembly of Armenia.

"Although we have not had any serious problems since the night of the 14th of the month and today as well, the situation remains tense. [But] it is not about Syunik [Province]; tensions are in the Artsakh [(Nagorno-Karabakh)] sector. Measures are being taken, through negotiations and other actions, so that issues of possible provocations, possible escalation [of tension] do not arise," he said.

The deputy defense minister assured that the Azerbaijani armed forces have not advanced any further.

Arman Sargsyan noted that there are humanitarian problems in several villages of Artsakh—and related to the damaged natural gas pipeline.

"The statements of the Azerbaijani side are moves aimed at creating a general panic, climate of fear, and launching a process of de-Armenianization. Steps are being taken to maintain the tense situation. I can say as of the morning, when I came to the meeting, at that moment I was informed that the situation is stable. Our [military] units are vigilant, they are monitoring the process, and will take preventive measures if necessary," he added.

Asked whether he sees a danger of broader military operations in Artsakh, he Sargsyan responded: "I can not rule out any provocation, no one can rule it out. Maybe possible provocations, steps will be taken by the adversary in connection with geopolitical changes. But I can say for sure that we are not taking any aggressive steps.

Naturally, when there are clashes, they also have casualties. There was no case when we did not respond to their aggression. I say we are not taking any steps contributing to the increase of tension. However, in case of aggression against us, Armenia takes the necessary defensive steps."