Baku, November 25, 2024 – The Europe Today: Four years have passed since the liberation of Kalbajar from occupation, marking a pivotal moment in Azerbaijan’s history following the 44-day Patriotic War in 2020.
The Azerbaijani Army’s counter-offensive operation, launched on September 27, 2020, culminated in a decisive victory on November 9, 2020. Over the course of the war, the army liberated more than 300 settlements and strategic heights, including key positions in Agdeen, Murovdag, and Zangilan. The liberation of Shusha on November 8 prompted Armenia to acknowledge its defeat and sign a trilateral statement on November 10, brokered by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.
Under the agreement, the Kalbajar region was returned to Azerbaijan on November 25, 2020, ending 27 years of Armenian occupation. Despite an initial deadline of November 15, Armenia, citing logistical challenges, requested a 10-day extension, which Azerbaijan granted in a gesture of humanitarianism.
However, during the extension period, widespread environmental and structural destruction was reported, as Armenians departing the region looted and burned buildings, cut down trees, and engaged in environmental vandalism. Landmines were also planted, resulting in tragic incidents, including the deaths of journalists and local officials in June 2021.
Kalbajar’s liberation holds deep symbolic and strategic importance for Azerbaijan. President Ilham Aliyev, in a televised address on November 25, 2020, congratulated the nation, describing the event as a milestone in restoring Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity.
To honor those who contributed to the region’s liberation, the Republic of Azerbaijan established the medal “For the Freedom of Kalbajar.” This recognition was awarded to servicemen demonstrating exceptional bravery and heroism during the operations.
The occupation of Kalbajar, which began on April 2, 1993, resulted in extensive damage to the city and surrounding settlements. Historical, cultural, and religious sites, as well as cemeteries, were desecrated or destroyed during the 27-year period.
Kalbajar’s return, along with the peaceful handover of Aghdam on November 20 and Lachin on December 1 under the tripartite agreement, stands as a testament to Azerbaijan’s success in reclaiming its territories without further loss of life.
