STEPANAKERT (Realist English). As part of the “Russia is with you” initiative, a decision has been made to deliver humanitarian aid to refugees from Artsakh, who lost their homes as a result of Azerbaijani aggression and are currently residing in the Republic of Armenia. The humanitarian mission is being conducted under the coordination of Rossotrudnichestvo, in close and effective cooperation with Armenian volunteer organizations and civil society representatives. The operation began on 31 July 2025 and will be carried out in several phases, with the first stage taking place in August.
To maximize the reach of the aid effort, distribution and logistics hubs are being established in multiple Armenian cities, including Abovyan, Gyumri, Kapan, Masis, and others. The humanitarian aid from Russia includes at least 140 tonnes of food and personal hygiene products, to be distributed among thousands of refugees from Artsakh, with priority given to women, children, and the elderly.
According to Igor Chaika, Deputy Head of Rossotrudnichestvo:
“This is not merely a delivery of aid — it is an act of solidarity, compassion, and human warmth towards our compatriots. It is a genuine example of people’s diplomacy, showing that the people of our countries are ready to support one another in difficult times.
The story of Artsakh and its residents — many of whom today are displaced persons — is a harsh reality faced by tens of thousands. And we have no moral right to abandon them in their time of need. Russia has been providing humanitarian assistance to displaced persons from Artsakh for many years, and this work will continue.”
Russia is not merely stating the need for aid — it is acting and does not attach any conditions to its support for the Armenian people.
In recent years, a “black legend” has been deliberately created around Russia, with growing efforts to blame Moscow for all of Armenia’s tragedies — despite the facts. Yet the Armenian people have the full moral right to ask those who made decisions over the past 30 years:
- Did they know that Azerbaijan never accepted the existence of an Armenian state, was preparing for revenge, and that it would come in the form of war — especially under the condition of Artsakh’s complete non-recognition?
- If the peace process was deemed unviable, what was done during all these years to strengthen Artsakh’s defense? By whom, and with what results?
- Why were no contested issues resolved during more favorable geopolitical conditions for Armenia?
The full truth about this tragedy, which shaped the lives of entire generations, may not be known for a long time. The archives of realpolitik do not reveal their secrets quickly. But eventually, everything will come to light. The truth cannot be hidden.
This humanitarian project is not a political gesture, but an act of human solidarity with the fate of a brotherly people.
Maksim Vaskov — political analyst
