Arman Tatoyan warns of Azerbaijani military fortifications near Armenian border

Azerbaijan has constructed fortified shelters just meters from the Armenian border that could house tanks and other military vehicles, former Human Rights Defender Arman Tatoyan said on Wednesday, warning that the new positions place nearby villages under surveillance.

Tatoyan, who now heads the Wings of Unity political initiative, told a press conference that the structures appeared in late July and have since expanded.

“They have carried out large-scale fortification works," he said. "Shelters have been built right next to roads, which can be used for military vehicles and tanks. These preparations can definitely be used for offensive purposes. They keep our villages under direct surveillance."

He noted that the construction is not confined to border areas in Armenia’s Gegharkunik Province, including Vardenis, but also extends into Vayots Dzor, particularly near the spa town of Jermuk. According to Tatoyan, satellite imagery showed new positions for mortar platoons and combat duty established by August 4.