In an interview with Tert.am, one of the Armenian commanders in the Arstakh liberation war, Major General Rafael (Felix) Gzoyan spoke of the situation on the Line of Contact and of his view of a settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

He also spoke of Armenia’s military potential and people’s willingness to defend their homeland.

“If a war breaks out, I will take anyone. If I go to war and they are not with me, I will force them regardless of whose sons they are,” Mr Gzoyan said.

“By escalating tension on the threshold of political meetings Azerbaijan aimed at escalating tension inside Armenia and demonstrating its influence not only on Armenia, but also on the international community, raising its troops’ morale. But all the attempts failed, because our armed forces are much more efficient and they have been able to thwart all the acts of sabotage by Azerbaijan. This is evidence that our commanders and soldiers are ready to win victory in any military operations. And this small victory inspires our freedom-fighters and young people. I am sure that they are willing to defend the homeland if a war breaks out.”

As regards the probability of war, Mr Gzoyan said:

“I do not think long-lasting peace will be established after the Sochi meeting, so we must be ready to rebuff the enemy. I cannot say how long the ceasefire will be. Our priority task is to improve our troops’ morale and efficiency.”
source: tert.am