The European Union has proposed extending its border monitoring mission in Armenia for another two years, despite opposition from Azerbaijan and Russia. The mission, established in February 2023, aims to prevent ceasefire violations along Armenia’s border with Azerbaijan. Its current mandate is set to expire next month.
EU foreign policy spokesperson Anitta Hipper confirmed the proposal, stating, “The EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy has suggested extending the mission by two years. Member states have expressed support and are discussing the necessary legal steps. A formal decision is expected in the coming weeks.”
Azerbaijan has demanded the withdrawal of the more than 200 EU monitors stationed on the Armenian side of the border. On December 12, Baku pressed for a clause in the draft peace treaty with Armenia that would block the mission’s continuation.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has maintained that the monitors should only leave demarcated sections of the border. However, with much of the border still undemarcated, this condition leaves the monitors’ future uncertain.
Azerbaijan has accused the EU mission of destabilizing the region. Hipper dismissed these claims, noting, “The mission fosters confidence among communities affected by the conflict. Since its deployment, armed incidents along the border have significantly decreased. The EU has regularly informed Azerbaijan about its activities.”
The Armenian government has also commended the monitors’ contributions, but it is unclear whether Yerevan has officially requested an extension of their mandate.
The EU mission was initially deployed at Armenia’s request after Yerevan accused Russia and other CSTO allies of failing to defend it against Azerbaijani attacks in 2022. Moscow has criticized the mission, framing it as part of Western efforts to reduce Russian influence in the South Caucasus.
