Karabakh Armenians Declare Breakaway Republic's Demise

Ethnic Armenian separatists in Karabakh have announced the dissolution of their breakaway republic and their intention to become a part of Azerbaijan by the end of the year. The announcement marks the end of one of the world's longest "frozen conflicts." Residents are urged to familiarize themselves with the conditions of reintegration offered by Azerbaijan and make an independent decision on whether to stay. Armenia stated that over 70,000 people have already left the region, and the Armenian president expects the entire region to clear out in the coming days. The change in the situation follows an "anti-terrorist operation" by Azerbaijan, which led to a truce and disarmament agreement with the separatists. Azerbaijan wants ethnic Armenians to remain in Karabakh and become part of its multi-ethnic society, while Armenia accuses Baku of ethnic cleansing.