Russian President Vladimir Putin reported progress in negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan about the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He said that “in general, it seems, the fundamental principles of a peaceful settlement have already been agreed upon.”
He added that the two sides are now in a “ home-straight,” negotiating to resolve “controversial technical issues.” However, he warned that “anything can happen” until the final agreement is reached.
Putin’s comments come as the two sides continue talks mediated by Russia, with the latest round of consultations held in Moscow on December 20–22. During the talks, Armenia and Azerbaijan reached agreement on two sets of principles and have since been negotiating the details of a putative peace deal that could finally end the long-running Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
The next round of talks is scheduled to begin January 11 in Geneva. Following the Moscow talks, representatives from the two countries met for additional talks in Geneva, where progress was also reported.