Recognizing Escalation of Violence Along Armenian-Azerbaijani Border

Floor Speech

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Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the escalating violence that is occurring in the Armenian-Azerbaijani border.

Beginning July 12, the Azeri soldiers approached the Armenian border, a place that has been one of contention, and opened fired on Armenian civilians in the Tavush Province.

Since then, the conflict, sadly, has escalated. The Azeri armed forces have been indiscriminate in attacking Armenian schools and factories, factories producing personal protective equipment that is essential during this pandemic.

Azerbaijan must be held accountable. In the midst of this global pandemic, where supplies and resources are already stretched, it is critical now more than ever that we work toward peace with Artsakh.

We must reevaluate the U.S. security assistance to Azerbaijan immediately--they are not being appropriate in their actions--as well as increase aid to Armenia to counter Azeri aggression.

In the appropriations bill yesterday, a $20 million augmentation was made to the country of Armenia. I urge my colleagues to support that and urge immediate action condemning Azerbaijan's disgraceful actions.

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