southfront--2020-09-28--Azerbaijan Attacks Armenian Positions With TOS-1A Heavy Flamethrower System

On September 28th , the Ministry of Defense of the Nagorno Karabakh region announced that the Azerbaijani armed forces were using TOS heavy artillery .
A video was also released presumably showing the Azerbaijani side use the TOS-1A Solntsepek against Armenian positions .
The TOS-1A Solntsepek is a multi-barrel rocket launch ( MBRL ) system designed and developed by the Russian company – Omsk Transmash Design Bureau .
It is the latest variant of the TOS-1 flamethrower system .
The TOS-1A was commissioned into service by the Russian Army in 2001 .
It offers direct fire support to complement main @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the battlefield .
The chassis of TOS-1A MBRL system is based on the T-72 main battle tank .
It retains the same design with the turret being replaced with the rocket launch facility .
The hull of the vehicle is made of reinforced steel .
The total weight of the launch vehicle is 46,500kg .
The rocket launcher has the capability to carry three personnel , with the driver stationed in the middle and the commander and gunner accommodated within the two small turrets at the rear .
The MBRL system offers lower @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launch systems .
It , however , offers much versatility to the operators due to its thermobaric and multiple launch capabilities .
The TOS-1A platform carries an ammunition load of 24 rockets , while the TZM-T re-loader vehicle holds 48 rockets .
The launch system of TOS-1A integrates 24 launch tubes .
The 220mm calibre tubes used in the system are longer and lighter than that of the earlier version .
The launch system is positioned exactly at the centre of the armoured chassis .
It has the ability to rotate 360° without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ launch control system enables the launch of unguided missiles .
Each rocket is equipped with a detonating fuse , special thermobaric explosives and a solid-fuelled thrust engine .
The system has the capability to launch multiple rockets within half a second .
The rockets can engage targets within the range between 400m and 6,000m .
The MBRL system offers protection against small arms fire and shell splinters .
Additionally , either side of the armored vehicle has Type 902G smoke grenade launchers .
The vehicle is powered by a V-84-1 engine with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The components of the TOS-1A rocket launcher system are similar to those of BM-1 Combat vehicle , while the chassis is based on the T-72 battle tank .
It has six road wheels on either side .
The vehicle has a maximum speed of 60km/h and can travel up to 550km .
As of information from open sources , the Azerbaijani army operates 36 TOS-1A heavy artillery systems .
Armenia , on the other hand purchased 6 TOS-1A back in 2016 , and it is unclear if it operates more .
MORE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Itself For Another Day Of Intense Hostilities , As Armenia Restores Some Positions Overnight • Video Allegedly Showing Syrian Militants In Azerbaijan Surfaced During Clashes In Nagorno-Karabakh

Support SouthFront
On September 28th, the Ministry of Defense of the Nagorno Karabakh region announced that the Azerbaijani armed forces were using TOS heavy artillery.
“Today the enemy used TOS heavy artillery systems in the southern and southeastern directions of the front. The use of weapons proved to be ineffective. All the information spread by the enemy about the losses of the Armenian side does not correspond to reality,” the statement said.
A video was also released presumably showing the Azerbaijani side use the TOS-1A Solntsepek against Armenian positions.
The TOS-1A Solntsepek is a multi-barrel rocket launch (MBRL) system designed and developed by the Russian company – Omsk Transmash Design Bureau. It is the latest variant of the TOS-1 flamethrower system.
The TOS-1A was commissioned into service by the Russian Army in 2001. It offers direct fire support to complement main battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles on the battlefield.
The chassis of TOS-1A MBRL system is based on the T-72 main battle tank. It retains the same design with the turret being replaced with the rocket launch facility.
The hull of the vehicle is made of reinforced steel. The total weight of the launch vehicle is 46,500kg.
The rocket launcher has the capability to carry three personnel, with the driver stationed in the middle and the commander and gunner accommodated within the two small turrets at the rear.
The MBRL system offers lower firing range compared to other multiple rocket launch systems. It, however, offers much versatility to the operators due to its thermobaric and multiple launch capabilities.
The TOS-1A platform carries an ammunition load of 24 rockets, while the TZM-T re-loader vehicle holds 48 rockets.
The launch system of TOS-1A integrates 24 launch tubes. The 220mm calibre tubes used in the system are longer and lighter than that of the earlier version.
The launch system is positioned exactly at the centre of the armoured chassis. It has the ability to rotate 360° without interruption in firing.
The fully automatic launch control system enables the launch of unguided missiles. Each rocket is equipped with a detonating fuse, special thermobaric explosives and a solid-fuelled thrust engine.
The system has the capability to launch multiple rockets within half a second. The rockets can engage targets within the range between 400m and 6,000m.
The MBRL system offers protection against small arms fire and shell splinters.
Additionally, either side of the armored vehicle has Type 902G smoke grenade launchers.
The vehicle is powered by a V-84-1 engine with a rated power output of 840hp at 2,000rpm. The components of the TOS-1A rocket launcher system are similar to those of BM-1 Combat vehicle, while the chassis is based on the T-72 battle tank.
It has six road wheels on either side.
The vehicle has a maximum speed of 60km/h and can travel up to 550km.
As of information from open sources, the Azerbaijani army operates 36 TOS-1A heavy artillery systems.
Armenia, on the other hand purchased 6 TOS-1A back in 2016, and it is unclear if it operates more.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--Azerbaijan Primes Itself For Another Day Of Intense Hostilities, As Armenia Restores Some Positions

Azerbaijan Primes Itself For Another Day Of Intense Hostilities, As Armenia Restores Some Positions Overnight

Over the evening of September 27th , and continuing in September 28th , clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia over Nagorno Karabakh continued .
During the fighting in Karabakh , the Armenian side suffered losses overnight , As of the morning of September 28th , the number of victims among the military is 31 people .
It is unclear how many Azerbaijani soldiers were killed , as Armenia claims to be in the hundreds , while Azerbaijan claims it lost none .
The most recent report is that overnight Azerbaijan lost some positions to the Armenian army , which pushed back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intensity of attacks .
A video was shared reportedly showing two Armenian tanks being destroyed by Azerbaijani forces .
Separate reports claimed that Russia was providing assistance to Armenia through Iran .
With photographs showing military hardware being delivered .
On the morning of September 28th , the Armenian Foreign Ministry reported that they attempted risk reduction , but Azerbaijan had refused everything .
The overnight intensity of clashes was low , but they kept happening .
As of the morning of September 28th , Azerbaijan is reportedly continuing its heavy offensive , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A video was released of an Armenian ATGM hitting an Azerbaijani tank .
An Azerbaijani General was reportedly wounded and taken prisoner by Armenian forces .
A presumed list was published of the names of Syrian militants that were sent to assist Azerbaijan in the offensive .
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said he is “ extremely concerned over the fresh resumption of hostilities ” between Armenia and Azerbaijan .
Both sides exchanged accusations , with Armenia saying that Azerbaijan has caused the escalation , with Turkey directly supporting it in its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ later called on the international community to ensure that Turkey does not involve itself in Armenia ’ s conflict with Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region .
Pashinyan also said Turkey ’ s behavior could have destructive consequences for the South Caucasus and neighbouring regions .
The Nagorno-Karabakh leader Araik Harutyunyan said that the region has lost some positions to Azerbaijan ’ s army amid renewed clashes .
He also said there were dead and wounded both among civilians and military personnel .
Azerbaijan said that full responsibility for the present situation on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military leadership of Armenia , Azerbaijan ’ s Foreign Ministry has said .
Turkey has voiced its support for Azerbaijan in response to the clashes .
“ While I call on the Armenian people to take hold of their future against their leadership that is dragging them to catastrophe and those using it like puppets , we also call on the the entire world to stand with Azerbaijan in their battle against invasion and cruelty , ” said Turkey ’ s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Twitter .
“ We will support our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their fight to protect their territorial integrity , ” added Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar in a statement .
How did it begin ?
Armenia ’ s Defense ministry said an attack on civilian settlements in Nagorno-Karabakh , including the regional capital Stepanakert , began on the morning of September 27th .
The authorities in Nagorno-Karabakh said 18 people were killed – 16 of their troops , a woman and a child – and 100 wounded .
Armenia ’ s government declared martial law and total military mobilization , shortly after a similar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Warning that the region was on the brink of a “ large-scale war ” , he urged the international community to unite to prevent any further destabilization .
Armenia said it had shot down two helicopters and three drones , and destroyed three tanks during the clashes .
It also said that it had killed hundreds of Azeri soldiers .
Azerbaijan ’ s defense ministry confirmed the loss of one helicopter but said the crew had survived , and reported that 12 Armenian air defense systems had been destroyed .
It denied other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he had ordered a large-scale counter-offensive operation in response to Armenian army attacks .
A video was released showing the result of an Armenian counterattack .
There appears to be no videos published of the clashes overnight .
The situation is still developing with Armenia reportedly holding its positions , but Azerbaijan just renewing the heavy intensity of the offensive .
Currently , the situation is on the brink of full-out war between the two neighboring countries over the Nagorno-Karabakh region .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Armenia Says Turkey Directly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Claims Hundreds Azerbaijani Soldiers Killed • New Stage Of Armenian-Azerbaijani Conflict Already Turned Into Regional War

Support SouthFront
Over the evening of September 27th, and continuing in September 28th, clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia over Nagorno Karabakh continued.
Both sides reportedly deployed heavy artillery.
During the fighting in Karabakh, the Armenian side suffered losses overnight, 15 more servicemen were killed. As of the morning of September 28th, the number of victims among the military is 31 people.
It is unclear how many Azerbaijani soldiers were killed, as Armenia claims to be in the hundreds, while Azerbaijan claims it lost none.
The most recent report is that overnight Azerbaijan lost some positions to the Armenian army, which pushed back to reclaim them due to the reduced intensity of attacks.
A video was shared reportedly showing two Armenian tanks being destroyed by Azerbaijani forces.
Separate reports claimed that Russia was providing assistance to Armenia through Iran. With photographs showing military hardware being delivered.
Pictures are coming from different cities, Russia?? is giving help to Armenia through Iran.#Azerbaijan #Armenia pic.twitter.com/6I4QyEJ4Ah — Regional Warfare ? (@Kashmir28471265) September 28, 2020
On the morning of September 28th, the Armenian Foreign Ministry reported that they attempted risk reduction, but Azerbaijan had refused everything.
FM @ZMnatsakanyan to @France24_en: "We repeat, once again, there were many proposals to establish very precise risk-reduction, investigative, ceasefire-regime-strengthening mechanisms, which were strictly denied, because use of force has been exactly instrument of #Azerbaijan." pic.twitter.com/NScX2ASrJ2 — MFA of Armenia?? (@MFAofArmenia) September 28, 2020
The overnight intensity of clashes was low, but they kept happening.
As of the morning of September 28th, Azerbaijan is reportedly continuing its heavy offensive, using artillery, armored vehicles and TOS.
Armenia is firmly defending its positions.
During night battles continued w/ different intensity. Early in morning, #Azerbaijan resumed its offensive operations, using artillery, armored vehicles, TOS
heavy artillery system. Armenian subdivisions have been firmly repelling encroachments of AZE subdivisions — Shushan Stepanyan (@ShStepanyan) September 28, 2020
A video was released of an Armenian ATGM hitting an Azerbaijani tank.
An Azerbaijani General was reportedly wounded and taken prisoner by Armenian forces.
The #Azerbaijani side reports that Azerbaijani General Mayis Barkhudarov was wounded and taken prisoner. In 2016, Barkudarov announced that the Azerbaijans army could reach as far as Yerevan. Today his dream came true. He will come to Yerevan but in a different status ##artsakh pic.twitter.com/Ocnj2kPtkp — Akshay Bairwa ?????????????????? (@I_am_akshayyy) September 28, 2020
A presumed list was published of the names of Syrian militants that were sent to assist Azerbaijan in the offensive.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said he is “extremely concerned over the fresh resumption of hostilities” between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
“The Secretary-General strongly calls on the sides to immediately stop fighting, de-escalate tensions and return to meaningful negotiations without delay,” Guterres’s spokesman said in a statement. Guterres “condemns the use of force and regrets the loss of life and the toll on the civilian population,” the statement said, adding that the secretary-general would speak to the president of Azerbaijan and the prime minister of Armenia.
Both sides exchanged accusations, with Armenia saying that Azerbaijan has caused the escalation, with Turkey directly supporting it in its offensive.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan later called on the international community to ensure that Turkey does not involve itself in Armenia’s conflict with Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
Pashinyan also said Turkey’s behavior could have destructive consequences for the South Caucasus and neighbouring regions.
The Nagorno-Karabakh leader Araik Harutyunyan said that the region has lost some positions to Azerbaijan’s army amid renewed clashes.
He also said there were dead and wounded both among civilians and military personnel.
Azerbaijan said that full responsibility for the present situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border falls on the political and military leadership of Armenia, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry has said.
“Another [act of] aggression by Armenia against Azerbaijan is a blatant violation of fundamental norms and principles of international law, international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols, as well as United Nations Security Council Resolutions 822, 853, 874, 884 of 1993, demanding the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the armed forces of Armenia from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan,” the ministry said in a statement.
Turkey has voiced its support for Azerbaijan in response to the clashes.
“While I call on the Armenian people to take hold of their future against their leadership that is dragging them to catastrophe and those using it like puppets, we also call on the the entire world to stand with Azerbaijan in their battle against invasion and cruelty,” said Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Twitter. “We will support our Azerbaijani brothers with all our means in their fight to protect their territorial integrity,” added Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar in a statement.
How did it begin?
Armenia’s Defense ministry said an attack on civilian settlements in Nagorno-Karabakh, including the regional capital Stepanakert, began on the morning of September 27th.
The authorities in Nagorno-Karabakh said 18 people were killed – 16 of their troops, a woman and a child – and 100 wounded.
Armenia’s government declared martial law and total military mobilization, shortly after a similar announcement by the authorities inside Nagorno-Karabakh.
“Get ready to defend our sacred homeland,” Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said after accusing Azerbaijan of “planned aggression”.
Warning that the region was on the brink of a “large-scale war”, he urged the international community to unite to prevent any further destabilization.
Armenia said it had shot down two helicopters and three drones, and destroyed three tanks during the clashes. It also said that it had killed hundreds of Azeri soldiers.
Azerbaijan’s defense ministry confirmed the loss of one helicopter but said the crew had survived, and reported that 12 Armenian air defense systems had been destroyed. It denied other losses reported by Armenia.
President Aliyev said he had ordered a large-scale counter-offensive operation in response to Armenian army attacks.
“I am confident that our successful counter-offensive operation will put an end to the occupation, to the injustice, to the 30-year-long occupation,” he said.
A video was released showing the result of an Armenian counterattack. There appears to be no videos published of the clashes overnight.
This is the result of the #Armenian counterattack.
The #Azerbaijani troops wasn't able to hold them and suffered heavy casualties and lost 11 paces of equipment.
WARNING GRAPHIC IMAGES….#Armenia #NagornoKarabakh #Artsakh #ArtsakhStrong pic.twitter.com/lwk6zys7ep — Info Warrior (@InfoWarriorNews) September 27, 2020
A video was also shared on Twitter presumably showing Syrian militants being deployed by Turkey to assist the Azerbaijani army.
The situation is still developing with Armenia reportedly holding its positions, but Azerbaijan just renewing the heavy intensity of the offensive. Currently, the situation is on the brink of full-out war between the two neighboring countries over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--As Taiwan – China Tensions Remain High, New Japanese PM Urges Regional Stability

Stoked by the second visit to the renegade Chinese island by a senior US official in the last couple of months , and the recent announcement of a massive package of pending weapons sales by the US , the last week has been another intense period of live-fire military drills and mutual recriminations .
Meanwhile , Japan ’ s new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said on Friday he had agreed with Chinese President Xi Jinping to pursue high-level contacts in a bid to promote regional and international stability .
China has stepped up its military flights near Taiwan , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taiwan Strait , in the weeks following the announcement by the Trump administration that the US is planning a major weapons sale to the renegade island , probably including cruise missiles , drones and mines .
China has threatened or entered into Taiwan ’ s airspace 46 times in the past nine days , the island ’ s defence ministry said .
On Thursday , an aircraft of the People ’ s Liberation Army entered the island ’ s air defence identification zone , thought to be a Yun-8 anti-submarine aircraft .
Taiwan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warnings , scrambled fighters , and deployed anti-aircraft missile systems in response .
LINK Taiwan ’ s defence ministry said China ’ s aerial incursions were at their most intense at the end of last week as Keith Krach , the US undersecretary of state for economic growth , energy and the environment , arrived on the island for an official visit .
Chinese officials stated that China has been reacting to what Beijing has called ‘ collusion ’ between Taiwan and the United States , and to protect China ’ s sovereignty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visit last week to Taipei .
In response to the spike in hostile aerial activity , Taiwan ’ s armed forces held military drills on one of its offshore islands close to China on Thursday and Friday .
Taiwan ’ s Defence Ministry said the drills to repel a landing took place on the Matsu archipelago , which lies just offshore the Chinese city of Fuzhou .
The drills took place across the archipelago involving the use of cannons and machine guns , the ministry added , accompanied by pictures of the exercises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Kinmen further down the coast , since defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan in 1949 at the end of the Chinese civil war .
When Taiwan and China last joined battle on a large scale in 1958 it was around Matsu and Kinmen , with Chinese forces carrying out more than a month of bombardments , including naval and air battles… Both are considered by experts as likely targets for Chinese invasion in any war with Taiwan due to their proximity to China .
LINK The South China Morning Post reports that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eastern and southern coasts following military manoeuvres staged by Beijing near the self-ruled island in recent days .
The Thursday night test was part of a two-day programme by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology to examine the power of missiles launched from the eastern county of Taitung and the Jiupeng military base in the island ’ s southernmost county of Pingtung .
According to the agency ’ s public notice , the missile tests covered a zone stretching 300km ( 186 miles ) into the Pacific , encompassing the waters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including Orchid Island .
While the institute refused to comment on the type of missiles tested , the semi-official Central News Agency quoted an unnamed retired institute official as saying the missiles launched on Thursday were likely to be Tien Kung-3 ( Sky Bow-3 ) – a 200km-range surface-to-air missile designed to intercept guided missiles from the mainland .
Some local news media outlets , quoting unnamed military experts , said the missiles could have been Hsiung Feng III supersonic anti-ship weapons or Tien Kung-3 , which were first test-fired at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LINK As Chinas , Taiwan and the US remain locked in a bitter war of nerves and military ‘ one-up manship ’ , new Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has urged all countries in the region to lower tensions and make a concerted effort to stabilize the geopolitical conditions in the Asia-Pacific region .
As a part of Japan ’ s new diplomatic efforts , Suga has spoken to his counterparts in South Korea and China , and also reached out to North Korea .
The phone call between the leaders of China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coronavirus outbreak in January .
“ Stable relations are important not just for our countries but for the region and the international community .
I want to fulfil that responsibility , ” Suga said in comments aired by public broadcaster NHK after he spoke with Xi .
Suga has also held phone conversations with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison , US President Donald Trump , British Prime Minister Boris Johnson , South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi .
Earlier on Friday , chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of our most important bilateral relationships ” , and that Tokyo wanted to resolve the countries ’ differences through high-level dialogue , including meetings between their leaders and foreign ministers .
LINK MORE ON THE TOPIC : • US plan to establish Asia-Pacific NATO-type formal alliance against China

Support SouthFront
Stoked by the second visit to the renegade Chinese island by a senior US official in the last couple of months, and the recent announcement of a massive package of pending weapons sales by the US, the last week has been another intense period of live-fire military drills and mutual recriminations. Meanwhile, Japan’s new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said on Friday he had agreed with Chinese President Xi Jinping to pursue high-level contacts in a bid to promote regional and international stability.
China has stepped up its military flights near Taiwan, including numerous incursions across the mid-line of the Taiwan Strait, in the weeks following the announcement by the Trump administration that the US is planning a major weapons sale to the renegade island, probably including cruise missiles, drones and mines.
China has threatened or entered into Taiwan’s airspace 46 times in the past nine days, the island’s defence ministry said.
On Thursday, an aircraft of the People’s Liberation Army entered the island’s air defence identification zone, thought to be a Yun-8 anti-submarine aircraft. Taiwan’s Ministry of Defence broadcast radio warnings, scrambled fighters, and deployed anti-aircraft missile systems in response. LINK
Taiwan’s defence ministry said China’s aerial incursions were at their most intense at the end of last week as Keith Krach, the US undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, arrived on the island for an official visit.
Chinese officials stated that China has been reacting to what Beijing has called ‘collusion’ between Taiwan and the United States, and to protect China’s sovereignty, in response to Krach’s visit last week to Taipei.
In response to the spike in hostile aerial activity, Taiwan’s armed forces held military drills on one of its offshore islands close to China on Thursday and Friday. Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said the drills to repel a landing took place on the Matsu archipelago, which lies just offshore the Chinese city of Fuzhou.
The drills took place across the archipelago involving the use of cannons and machine guns, the ministry added, accompanied by pictures of the exercises.
Taiwan has held Matsu, along with Kinmen further down the coast, since defeated Nationalist forces fled to Taiwan in 1949 at the end of the Chinese civil war. When Taiwan and China last joined battle on a large scale in 1958 it was around Matsu and Kinmen, with Chinese forces carrying out more than a month of bombardments, including naval and air battles… Both are considered by experts as likely targets for Chinese invasion in any war with Taiwan due to their proximity to China. LINK
The South China Morning Post reports that Taiwan has also test-fired missiles off its eastern and southern coasts following military manoeuvres staged by Beijing near the self-ruled island in recent days.
The Thursday night test was part of a two-day programme by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology to examine the power of missiles launched from the eastern county of Taitung and the Jiupeng military base in the island’s southernmost county of Pingtung.
According to the agency’s public notice, the missile tests covered a zone stretching 300km (186 miles) into the Pacific, encompassing the waters off the counties of Hualien and Taitung, including Orchid Island.
While the institute refused to comment on the type of missiles tested, the semi-official Central News Agency quoted an unnamed retired institute official as saying the missiles launched on Thursday were likely to be Tien Kung-3 (Sky Bow-3) – a 200km-range surface-to-air missile designed to intercept guided missiles from the mainland. Some local news media outlets, quoting unnamed military experts, said the missiles could have been Hsiung Feng III supersonic anti-ship weapons or Tien Kung-3, which were first test-fired at the Jiupeng military base three months ago. LINK
As Chinas, Taiwan and the US remain locked in a bitter war of nerves and military ‘one-up manship’, new Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has urged all countries in the region to lower tensions and make a concerted effort to stabilize the geopolitical conditions in the Asia-Pacific region. As a part of Japan’s new diplomatic efforts, Suga has spoken to his counterparts in South Korea and China, and also reached out to North Korea. The phone call between the leaders of China and Japan is the first since the Coronavirus outbreak in January.
“Stable relations are important not just for our countries but for the region and the international community. I want to fulfil that responsibility,” Suga said in comments aired by public broadcaster NHK after he spoke with Xi.
Suga has also held phone conversations with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, US President Donald Trump, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Earlier on Friday, chief cabinet secretary Katsunobu Kato said Japan considers ties with China as “one of our most important bilateral relationships”, and that Tokyo wanted to resolve the countries’ differences through high-level dialogue, including meetings between their leaders and foreign ministers. LINK
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--Armenia Says Turkey Directly Participates In Azerbaijani Advance On Nagorno-Karabakh, Claims Hundred

Armenia Says Turkey Directly Participates In Azerbaijani Advance On Nagorno-Karabakh, Claims Hundreds Azerbaijani Soldiers Killed

Clashes between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued in the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region on September 27 evening .
Azerbaijan , supported by Turkey , seeks to take control over the entire region and dismantle the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic , a self-proclaimed state with an Armenian majority and integrated into Armenia .
Azerbaijani forces have been advancing sine the morning and so far , according to the Azerbaijani side , have captured at least 7 villages and several key heights in Fuzuli and Jabrayil areas .
Turkey , a strategic ally of Azerbaijan , already declared its full support to its actions and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any requested assistance .
The Armenian side says that Turkish forces and proxies directly participate in the clashes .
Arayik Harutyunyan , the President of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic , said that not only Azerbaijan , but also Turkey is at war with the republic .
The Armenian Defense Ministry also declared thatit has data confirming the participation of mercenaries ( likely members of Syrian militant groups funded by Turkey ) , the “ Turkish involvement ” and the usage of “ Turkish weapons ” .
Armenian sources continue releasing videos of the destroyed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least 8 bodies ) of Azerbaijani forces .
The first seconds of the video likely shows vestiges of a Mi-8 helicopter of the Azerbaijani military : Armenian Defense Ministry spokesman Artsrun Hovhannisyan said that about 200 Azerbaijani soldiers were killed .
He also said that 30 armored vehicles and 20 drones were destroyed .
According to Hovhannisyan , 90 out of almost a hundred wounded Armenian soldiers are in normal condition , the rest were taken to a military hospital in Yerevan .
At least 16 Armenian soldiers were confirmed to be killed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got a fire control over the road between Armenia and the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic .
Forces of Azerbaijan allegedly took the Murov height of the Murovdag mountain range and established fire control of the Vardenis-Aghdar road connecting Karabakh with Armenia .
The Ministry of Defense said that this will prevent the transportation of additional troops and equipment from Armenia along the route in the direction of the Kelbajar and Aghdar regions in Karabakh .
The Armenian side denied these claims and said that the Azerbaijani attack on its positions near the town of Mrav @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the Armenians lost ‘ some positions ’ in the area Talish and in the southern areas .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • New Stage Of Armenian-Azerbaijani Conflict Already Turned Into Regional War • Azerbaijan Makes First Gains In Emerging War Against Armenia ( Map , Video )

Support SouthFront
Clashes between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued in the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region on September 27 evening. Azerbaijan, supported by Turkey, seeks to take control over the entire region and dismantle the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, a self-proclaimed state with an Armenian majority and integrated into Armenia.
Azerbaijani forces have been advancing sine the morning and so far, according to the Azerbaijani side, have captured at least 7 villages and several key heights in Fuzuli and Jabrayil areas. Turkey, a strategic ally of Azerbaijan, already declared its full support to its actions and said that it is ready to provide any requested assistance.
The Armenian side says that Turkish forces and proxies directly participate in the clashes. Arayik Harutyunyan, the President of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, said that not only Azerbaijan, but also Turkey is at war with the republic.
The Armenian Defense Ministry also declared thatit has data confirming the participation of mercenaries (likely members of Syrian militant groups funded by Turkey), the “Turkish involvement” and the usage of “Turkish weapons”.
Armenian sources continue releasing videos of the destroyed military equipment and killed soldiers (at least 8 bodies) of Azerbaijani forces. The first seconds of the video likely shows vestiges of a Mi-8 helicopter of the Azerbaijani military:
Armenian Defense Ministry spokesman Artsrun Hovhannisyan said that about 200 Azerbaijani soldiers were killed. He also said that 30 armored vehicles and 20 drones were destroyed. According to Hovhannisyan, 90 out of almost a hundred wounded Armenian soldiers are in normal condition, the rest were taken to a military hospital in Yerevan. At least 16 Armenian soldiers were confirmed to be killed.
Meanwhile, Azerbaijan declared that it got a fire control over the road between Armenia and the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic. Forces of Azerbaijan allegedly took the Murov height of the Murovdag mountain range and established fire control of the Vardenis-Aghdar road connecting Karabakh with Armenia. The Ministry of Defense said that this will prevent the transportation of additional troops and equipment from Armenia along the route in the direction of the Kelbajar and Aghdar regions in Karabakh.
The Armenian side denied these claims and said that the Azerbaijani attack on its positions near the town of Mrav was repelled. Nonetheless, it confirmed that the Armenians lost ‘some positions’ in the area Talish and in the southern areas.
Clashes are ongoing.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--ISIS Released Photos Of Recent Ambush In Nigeria’s Borno

On September 27 , ISIS ’ news agency Amaq shared photos of the terrorist group ’ s recent ambush in the northwestern Nigerian state of Borno .
The ambush , which took place on September 25 , targeted the convoy of Babagana Umara Zulumr regional governor of Borno .
The convoy was passing near the town of Baga , on the shores of Lake Chad , when it was attacked by dozens of terrorists .
Zulumr survived the attack without being hurt .
However , 30 soldiers , policemen , local fighters and civilians were killed by ISIS terrorists .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the ambush can be seen in Amaq ’ s photos , which also show some of the weapons and vehicles captured by the terrorist group .
In the last few months , ISIS terrorists stepped up their attacks in Borno , especially in the areas neighboring Lake Chad .
Dozens of service members and civilians were killed in attacks by the terrorist group .
The Nigerian military is conducting ground and aerial operations against the terrorist group ’ s cells in Borno on a regular basis .
However , the group still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well-planned attacks like the ambush near Baga .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Dozens Killed In ISIS Ambush On Borno Governor In Nigeria

Support SouthFront
On September 27, ISIS’ news agency Amaq shared photos of the terrorist group’s recent ambush in the northwestern Nigerian state of Borno.
The ambush, which took place on September 25, targeted the convoy of Babagana Umara Zulumr regional governor of Borno. The convoy was passing near the town of Baga, on the shores of Lake Chad, when it was attacked by dozens of terrorists.
Zulumr survived the attack without being hurt. However, 30 soldiers, policemen, local fighters and civilians were killed by ISIS terrorists.
The bodies of seven police officers killed in the ambush can be seen in Amaq’s photos, which also show some of the weapons and vehicles captured by the terrorist group.
In the last few months, ISIS terrorists stepped up their attacks in Borno, especially in the areas neighboring Lake Chad. Dozens of service members and civilians were killed in attacks by the terrorist group.
The Nigerian military is conducting ground and aerial operations against the terrorist group’s cells in Borno on a regular basis. However, the group still is capable of carrying out large, well-planned attacks like the ambush near Baga.
MORE ON THIS TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--Mozambican Army Repelled ISIS Attack On Bilibiza Town In Cabo Delgado (Map Update)

A brief overview of the recent developments in Mozambique : • Clashes between ISIS and Mozambican Army were reported in @ @ @ @ @ the Ilha Do Ibo and Ilha De Quirimba islands ; • According to The Mozambican @ @ @ @ @ Mozambican forces repelled ISIS attack on the town of Bilibiza in Cabo Delgado province .
@ @ @ @ @ has been provided yet ; • According to the Mozambican media , ISIS members managed @ @ @ @ @ the town and capture the territory of the agricultural Institute .
• Video Allegedly Showing @ @ @ @ @ During Clashes In Nagorno-Karabakh • Military Situation In Syria And Northern Lebanon On September 27 @ @ @ @ @ )

Support SouthFront
A brief overview of the recent developments in Mozambique:
Clashes between ISIS and Mozambican Army were reported in the mangrove forest peninsula between the Ilha Do Ibo and Ilha De Quirimba islands;
According to The Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi, the Mozambican forces repelled ISIS attack on the town of Bilibiza in Cabo Delgado province. No information about the casualties has been provided yet;
According to the Mozambican media, ISIS members managed to reach the outskirts of the town and capture the territory of the agricultural Institute.
MORE ON TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--IRGC Revealed New Naval Ballistic Missile Equipped With Electro-Optical Seeker (Photos)

On September 27 , the Iranian Islamic Revolution Guards Corps ( IRGC ) unveiled a new naval ballistic missile , dubbed “ Zolfaqar Basir.
” The new missile was put on display at a permanent exhibition of the achievements of the IRGC Aerospace Force .
The exhibition was inaugurated in the morning to celebrate the “ Sacred Defence Week , ” an annual commemoration of the Iran-Iraq war .
Zolfaqar Basir is the most advanced of Iran ’ s naval ballistic missiles , which were designed to engage large warships such as aircraft carriers .
The two older missiles Persian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 300 and 250 km .
The new missile ’ s range is up to 700 km .
The missile , which is derivative from the ground-to-ground Zolfaqar , is equipped with an optical seeker , likely used for target identification and tracking .
Zolfaqar Basir will further boost the offensive capabilities of the IRGC .
The missile ’ s large range allows it to engage any naval target in the Persian Gulf , Gulf of Omar or in the Arabian sea .
Despite the increasing pressure from the U.S , Iran managed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the last two years .
The Islamic country upgraded its missile arsenal , developed air-defense systems and built advanced drones .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • US Is Preparing Military Response To Wave Of Iranian-Backed Attacks On Its Forces In Iraq

Support SouthFront
On September 27, the Iranian Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) unveiled a new naval ballistic missile, dubbed “Zolfaqar Basir.”
The new missile was put on display at a permanent exhibition of the achievements of the IRGC Aerospace Force. The exhibition was inaugurated in the morning to celebrate the “Sacred Defence Week,” an annual commemoration of the Iran-Iraq war.
Zolfaqar Basir is the most advanced of Iran’s naval ballistic missiles, which were designed to engage large warships such as aircraft carriers. The two older missiles Persian Gulf and Hormuz, have a range of 300 and 250 km. The new missile’s range is up to 700 km.
The missile, which is derivative from the ground-to-ground Zolfaqar, is equipped with an optical seeker, likely used for target identification and tracking.
?? جدیدترین عضو خانواده موشک های ذوالفقار با نام ذوالفقار بصیر با سر جستجوگر اپتیکی pic.twitter.com/JPhRgUUdNB — Mohammad.Shaltouki (@mohshaltouki) September 27, 2020
Fast forward to 2020 and “Zolfaqar-e-Basir” has been unveiled (albeit, in mockup form) after being hinted at in NOV 2018. It is a Zolfaqar missile with a Khalije Fars style EO seeker. A leap in Iran’s ASBM range from 300km to 700km. https://t.co/E7iIYyrkR2 pic.twitter.com/RKI5yzknPF — Aᴍɪʀ (@AmirIGM) September 27, 2020
Zolfaqar Basir will further boost the offensive capabilities of the IRGC. The missile’s large range allows it to engage any naval target in the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Omar or in the Arabian sea.
Despite the increasing pressure from the U.S, Iran managed to make several breakthroughs in weapons development in the last two years. The Islamic country upgraded its missile arsenal, developed air-defense systems and built advanced drones.
MORE ON THIS TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--International Reactions To The Armenia – Azerbaijan Clashes

On Monday a senior government advisor to the Armenian government said they are preparing for a long war , and squarely blamed Turkey for the latest eruption of violence .
Azerbaijan has not surprisingly accused Armenia of being responsible for the latest round of armed clashes .
Their traditional allies , Russia and Turkey respectively , remain ‘ on standby ’ in case the situation deteriorates too far from the status quo in favour of one side or the other , in which case direct ‘ major power ’ participation and a completely unpredictable phase of escalation could occur .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region , Vagharshak Harutyunyan , the chief adviser to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan , said on Monday , adding that Turkey is pursuing it geopolitical interests in the conflict .
“ We are preparing for the long-term war .
Why ?
Because I keep telling that the main player here is not Azerbaijan , but Turkey .
It pursues its own geopolitical interests .
The duration of the war will depend on many factors , including how the fighting goes and the reaction of the international community , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defence minister in the late 1990s , told a Latvian YouTube channel in an interview .
Meanwhile , also on Monday , Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev spoke with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres by video conference , arguing that the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh should be settled on the basis of UN Security Council resolutions .
As of late Monday , Turkey still considered it unnecessary to deploy either its military or opposition fighters from Syria to the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region , Yasin Aktay , an aide to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan , told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ similar standby arrangement .
While this could act as a restraining influence on both sides , it could also have the opposite effect of encouraging one side or the other , or both , to escalate hostilities .
Tass reported on Monday : Armenia is ready to request additional military assistance from Russia but sees no reason to do it at the moment , Armenian Ambassador to Moscow Vardan Toganyan told the Govorit Moskva radio station on Monday .
According to him , Yerevan and Moscow continue to boost defense cooperation .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we will request Russia [ for additional military assistance ] , ” the envoy pointed out .
“ As of today , we don ’ t think that we need additional troops or other forces , ” he added .
“ However , we do believe that Russia has a major role in the Caucasus and is capable of using political methods to put an end to bloodshed , ” Toganyan emphasized .
LINK The European Union is calling on all sides in the Karabakh conflict to do everything possible to prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , EU Spokesman Peter Stano said Monday .
“ We urge everyone to do everything they can in order to prevent an all-out war from breaking out , ” Stano told a press conference .
The secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization ( CSTO ) , Stanislav Zas , is very concerned over the Armenian-Azerbaijani escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh , his spokesman Vladimir Zainetdinov said Monday , and is calling on both sides to launch a ceasefire and resume talks .
Armenia is a CSTO member , while Azerbaijan is a former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deep concern over the latest developments and offered to assist in calming the situation , without expressing an opinion over which if any of the sides it considers most culpable for the outbreak of armed clashes .
Belarus is ready to do everything possible to promote dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan and assist the solution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict , the Foreign Ministry said on Monday .
“ We are not just urging , but sincerely asking Azerbaijan and Armenia , which are both our important partners , to halt combat operations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toward peaceful settlement , including through the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe ’ s Minsk group .
We confirm readiness to provide any assistance that is needed in order to promote dialogue between the sides in this format or other formats that they find appropriate , ” the Belarusian Foreign Ministry said in a statement .
The German government also considers the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh to be very dangerous and has called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately halt combat operations , using mechanisms of the Organization for Security and Co-operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ Minsk Group ’ is co-chaired by the US , France and Russia , and is tasked with facilitating negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan .
The German Foreign Ministry noted that Berlin is maintaining contact with both sides through its embassies .
Pakistan has declared unequivocally that its supports Azerbaijan ’ s position in the conflict .
Islamabad also called on Armenia to cease its military activity to prevent further tensions .
LINK MORE ON THE TOPIC : • New stage of Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict already turned into regional war

Support SouthFront
On Monday a senior government advisor to the Armenian government said they are preparing for a long war, and squarely blamed Turkey for the latest eruption of violence. Azerbaijan has not surprisingly accused Armenia of being responsible for the latest round of armed clashes. Their traditional allies, Russia and Turkey respectively, remain ‘on standby’ in case the situation deteriorates too far from the status quo in favour of one side or the other, in which case direct ‘major power’ participation and a completely unpredictable phase of escalation could occur.
Armenia is preparing for a long-standing war over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region, Vagharshak Harutyunyan, the chief adviser to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, said on Monday, adding that Turkey is pursuing it geopolitical interests in the conflict.
“We are preparing for the long-term war. Why? Because I keep telling that the main player here is not Azerbaijan, but Turkey. It pursues its own geopolitical interests. The duration of the war will depend on many factors, including how the fighting goes and the reaction of the international community,” Harutyunyan, who worked as the Armenian defence minister in the late 1990s, told a Latvian YouTube channel in an interview.
Meanwhile, also on Monday, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev spoke with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres by video conference, arguing that the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh should be settled on the basis of UN Security Council resolutions.
“The President of Azerbaijan said that the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict should be settled only on the basis of international law, the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions demanding the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the Armenian Armed Forces from the occupied territories”, Aliyev’s press service said.
As of late Monday, Turkey still considered it unnecessary to deploy either its military or opposition fighters from Syria to the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region, Yasin Aktay, an aide to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, told Sputnik.
“I think that Turkey will not participate [in the conflict] with its military strength, there is no need for that, technical assistance is enough. But the road is open if the need arises,” Aktay said.
Armenia and Russia have a similar standby arrangement. While this could act as a restraining influence on both sides, it could also have the opposite effect of encouraging one side or the other, or both, to escalate hostilities. Tass reported on Monday:
Armenia is ready to request additional military assistance from Russia but sees no reason to do it at the moment, Armenian Ambassador to Moscow Vardan Toganyan told the Govorit Moskva radio station on Monday. According to him, Yerevan and Moscow continue to boost defense cooperation. “We believe that should the need arise, we will request Russia [for additional military assistance],” the envoy pointed out. “As of today, we don’t think that we need additional troops or other forces,” he added. “However, we do believe that Russia has a major role in the Caucasus and is capable of using political methods to put an end to bloodshed,” Toganyan emphasized. LINK
The European Union is calling on all sides in the Karabakh conflict to do everything possible to prevent a new war and avoid foreign interference, EU Spokesman Peter Stano said Monday.
“We urge everyone to do everything they can in order to prevent an all-out war from breaking out,” Stano told a press conference.
The secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Stanislav Zas, is very concerned over the Armenian-Azerbaijani escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh, his spokesman Vladimir Zainetdinov said Monday, and is calling on both sides to launch a ceasefire and resume talks. Armenia is a CSTO member, while Azerbaijan is a former member.
Similarly, Belarus has expressed deep concern over the latest developments and offered to assist in calming the situation, without expressing an opinion over which if any of the sides it considers most culpable for the outbreak of armed clashes.
Belarus is ready to do everything possible to promote dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan and assist the solution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the Foreign Ministry said on Monday.
“We are not just urging, but sincerely asking Azerbaijan and Armenia, which are both our important partners, to halt combat operations, reject use of weapons and find ways toward peaceful settlement, including through the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe’s Minsk group. We confirm readiness to provide any assistance that is needed in order to promote dialogue between the sides in this format or other formats that they find appropriate,” the Belarusian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The German government also considers the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh to be very dangerous and has called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately halt combat operations, using mechanisms of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
“The government sees the escalation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict as a very dangerous development. We call on both sides to immediately cease fire and resume negotiations. There is a special platform for this purpose, the OSCE Minsk group.”
The ‘Minsk Group’ is co-chaired by the US, France and Russia, and is tasked with facilitating negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
The German Foreign Ministry noted that Berlin is maintaining contact with both sides through its embassies.
Pakistan has declared unequivocally that its supports Azerbaijan’s position in the conflict.
“Pakistan stands with the brotherly nation of Azerbaijan and supports its right of self-defence. We support Azerbaijan’s position on Nagorno-Karabakh, which is in line with the several unanimously adopted UN Security Council resolutions”, the country’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Islamabad also called on Armenia to cease its military activity to prevent further tensions. LINK
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--Military Situation In Nagorno-Karabakh On September 28, 2020 (Map Update)

A brief overview of the recent developments in Nagorno-Karabakh : • According to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry , the Azerbaijani @ @ @ @ @ Garvand , Kend villages in Fuzuli area and Boyuk Marjanli and Nuzgaz villages in Jabrayil @ @ @ @ @ the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry , more than 550 Armenian soldiers were killed ; • Armenia @ @ @ @ @ Azerbaijani soldiers were killed ; • Azerbaijan reported that the Armenian Armed Forces lost 22 @ @ @ @ @ vehicles , 15 units of OSA anti-aircraft missile systems , 18 drones , 8 artillery @ @ @ @ @ 3 ammunition depots ; • According to the Armenian Defense Ministry , the Azerbaijani forces @ @ @ @ @ vehicles and 20 drones .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • In Videos : Azerbaijani @ @ @ @ @ Nagorno-Karabakh Region

Support SouthFront
A brief overview of the recent developments in Nagorno-Karabakh:
According to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces captured Qarakhanbeyli, Garvand, Kend villages in Fuzuli area and Boyuk Marjanli and Nuzgaz villages in Jabrayil area;
According to the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry, more than 550 Armenian soldiers were killed;
Armenia claimed that more than 200 Azerbaijani soldiers were killed;
Azerbaijan reported that the Armenian Armed Forces lost 22 tanks and other heavy armored vehicles, 15 units of OSA anti-aircraft missile systems, 18 drones, 8 artillery installations, as well as 3 ammunition depots;
According to the Armenian Defense Ministry, the Azerbaijani forces lost 30 tanks, armored vehicles and 20 drones.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--Armenian-Azerbaijani War Rages In South Caucasus

On September 27 , a new regional war in South Caucasus arose from the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region .
Pro-Armenian forces captured the region in the early 90s triggering an armed conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan .
Further development of the hostilities and the expected offensive by pro-Azerbajian forces were stopped by a Russian intervention in May of 1994 .
As of September 2020 , the Nagorno-Karabakh region and nearby areas are still under the control of Armenian forces , de-facto making it an unrecognized Armenian state – the Republic of Artsakh ( more widely known as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political crisis in Armenia the led to a seizure of power in the country by de-facto pro-Western forces led by current Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan which did not strengthen Armenian positions over the territorial dispute .
The double standard policy of the Armenian government , which was de-facto conducting anti-Russian actions but keeping public rhetoric pro-Russian , also played its own role .
For years , Russia has been the only guarantor of Armenian statehood and the only force capable to rescue it in the event of a full-scale Azerbaijani-Turkish attack .
Nonetheless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in undermining its strategic partnership with its neighbor .
On the other hand , the political and economic situation in Azerbaijan was more stable .
Baku also was able to secure good working relations with Russia .
Together with the developing strategic partnership with Turkey , a natural historical ally of the country , and the strengthening of Turkish positions in the Greater Middle East , led to an expected attempt by Azerbaijan to restore control over the contested territories .
The Azerbaijani advance started on in the morning of September 27 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military said that it had captured seven villages and several key heights in the Fuzuli and Jabrayil areas .
The military also announced that Azerbaijan captured the Murov height of the Murovdag mountain range and established fire control of the Vardenis-Aghdar road connecting Karabakh with Armenia .
The Ministry of Defense said that this will prevent the transportation of additional troops and equipment from Armenia along the route in the direction of the Kelbajar and Aghdar regions in Karabakh .
The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry also claimed that over 550 Armenian soldiers were killed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including at least 15 Osa air defense systems , 22 battle tanks and 8 artillery guns , were destroyed .
All statements from the Armenian side about the casualties among Azerbaijani forces were denounced as fake news .
Azerbaijan calls the ongoing advance a “ counter-offensive ” needed to put an end to Armenian ceasefire violations and to protect civilians .
President Ilham Aliyev signed a martial law decree and vowed to “ restore historical justice ” and “ restore the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan ” Turkey immediately declared its full support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to assist it in any way requested , including military support .
In its own turn , the Armenian military admitted that Azerbaijan captured some positions near Talish , but denied that the Vardenis-Aghdar road was cut off .
According to it , at least 200 Azerbaijani soldiers were killed , 30 armored vehicles and 20 drones were destroyed .
The Armenian Defense Ministry also said that it has data about Turkish involvement in the conflict , the usage of Turkish weapons and the presence of mercenaries linked to Turkey .
Earlier , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of its Syrian proxy groups in Azerbaijan .
Arayik Harutyunyan , the President of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic , openly stated that the republic is at war with both Azerbaijan and Turkey .
The Washington establishment that helped Pashinyan to seize power is also not hurrying up to assist its ‘ new friends ’ in Armenia .
They see the Nagorno-Karabakh region as a point of possible conflict between Russia and Turkey ( which is useful to promote the US agenda in the Greater Middle East ) .
The instability in South Caucasus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iran , also contributes to the geopolitical interests of the United States .
Therefore , the Pashinyan government should not expect any real help from the ‘ democratic superpower ’ .
On the other hand , the direct involvement of Russia and thus the Collective Security Treaty Organization on the side of Armenia is unlikely until there is no direct attack on its territory .
Moscow would intervene into the conflict both politically and militarily , but only as far as necessary to prevent a violation of Armenia ’ s borders .
Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Armenian control over Nagorno Karabakh should the region be captured by Azerbaijan .
If the regional war between Azerbaijan and Armenia develops further in the current direction , Armenia could loose at least a part of its positions in the contested region .
In the worst-case scenario for the Armenian leadership , Azerbaijan , with help from Turkey , will have a real chance to restore control over the most of the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region .

Support SouthFront
To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video
DEAR FRIENDS. IF YOU LIKE THIS TYPE OF CONTENT, SUPPORT SOUTHFRONT WORK: PayPal: southfront@list.ru, http://southfront.org/donate/ or via: https://www.patreon.com/southfront, BTC: 3Gbs4rjcVUtQd8p3CiFUCxPLZwRqurezRZ, BCH ABC: qpf2cphc5dkuclkqur7lhj2yuqq9pk3hmukle77vhq, ETH: 0x9f4cda013e354b8fc285bf4b9a60460cee7f7ea9
On September 27, a new regional war in South Caucasus arose from the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region.
Pro-Armenian forces captured the region in the early 90s triggering an armed conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Further development of the hostilities and the expected offensive by pro-Azerbajian forces were stopped by a Russian intervention in May of 1994. As of September 2020, the Nagorno-Karabakh region and nearby areas are still under the control of Armenian forces, de-facto making it an unrecognized Armenian state – the Republic of Artsakh (more widely known as the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic).
The 2018 political crisis in Armenia the led to a seizure of power in the country by de-facto pro-Western forces led by current Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan which did not strengthen Armenian positions over the territorial dispute. The double standard policy of the Armenian government, which was de-facto conducting anti-Russian actions but keeping public rhetoric pro-Russian, also played its own role. For years, Russia has been the only guarantor of Armenian statehood and the only force capable to rescue it in the event of a full-scale Azerbaijani-Turkish attack. Nonetheless, the Armenian leadership did pretty well in undermining its strategic partnership with its neighbor.
On the other hand, the political and economic situation in Azerbaijan was more stable. Baku also was able to secure good working relations with Russia. Together with the developing strategic partnership with Turkey, a natural historical ally of the country, and the strengthening of Turkish positions in the Greater Middle East, led to an expected attempt by Azerbaijan to restore control over the contested territories.
The Azerbaijani advance started on in the morning of September 27 and as of September 28, the Azerbaijani military said that it had captured seven villages and several key heights in the Fuzuli and Jabrayil areas. The military also announced that Azerbaijan captured the Murov height of the Murovdag mountain range and established fire control of the Vardenis-Aghdar road connecting Karabakh with Armenia. The Ministry of Defense said that this will prevent the transportation of additional troops and equipment from Armenia along the route in the direction of the Kelbajar and Aghdar regions in Karabakh.
The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry also claimed that over 550 Armenian soldiers were killed and dozens pieces of Armenian military equipment, including at least 15 Osa air defense systems, 22 battle tanks and 8 artillery guns, were destroyed. All statements from the Armenian side about the casualties among Azerbaijani forces were denounced as fake news.
Azerbaijan calls the ongoing advance a “counter-offensive” needed to put an end to Armenian ceasefire violations and to protect civilians. President Ilham Aliyev signed a martial law decree and vowed to “restore historical justice” and “restore the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan” Turkey immediately declared its full support to Azerbaijan saying that it is ready to assist it in any way requested, including military support.
In its own turn, the Armenian military admitted that Azerbaijan captured some positions near Talish, but denied that the Vardenis-Aghdar road was cut off. According to it, at least 200 Azerbaijani soldiers were killed, 30 armored vehicles and 20 drones were destroyed. The Armenian Defense Ministry also said that it has data about Turkish involvement in the conflict, the usage of Turkish weapons and the presence of mercenaries linked to Turkey. Earlier, reports appeared that Turkey was deploying members of its Syrian proxy groups in Azerbaijan. Arayik Harutyunyan, the President of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, openly stated that the republic is at war with both Azerbaijan and Turkey.
The Washington establishment that helped Pashinyan to seize power is also not hurrying up to assist its ‘new friends’ in Armenia. They see the Nagorno-Karabakh region as a point of possible conflict between Russia and Turkey (which is useful to promote the US agenda in the Greater Middle East). The instability in South Caucasus, close to the borders of Russia and Iran, also contributes to the geopolitical interests of the United States. Therefore, the Pashinyan government should not expect any real help from the ‘democratic superpower’.
On the other hand, the direct involvement of Russia and thus the Collective Security Treaty Organization on the side of Armenia is unlikely until there is no direct attack on its territory. Moscow would intervene into the conflict both politically and militarily, but only as far as necessary to prevent a violation of Armenia’s borders. Russia would not contribute military efforts to restore Armenian control over Nagorno Karabakh should the region be captured by Azerbaijan.
If the regional war between Azerbaijan and Armenia develops further in the current direction, Armenia could loose at least a part of its positions in the contested region. In the worst-case scenario for the Armenian leadership, Azerbaijan, with help from Turkey, will have a real chance to restore control over the most of the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region.
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--Saudi-led Coalition Intercepted Houthi Drone In Yemeni Marib Province

On September 27 , the Saudi-led coalition intercepted and destroyed an armed drone of Ansar Allah forces ( also known as the Houthis ) , which was targeting the Kingdom ’ s southern region .
According to the coalition spokesperson , the drone was destroyed in Yemen ’ s airspace , in the desert between Ruwaik and Al-Abram .
On September 24 , Saudi-led coalition allegedly shot down one more Ansar Allah ’ s drone in the North of Marib province .
Due to the prisoners ’ exchange agreement reached between the Hadi government and Ansar Allah , 230 Hadi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exchange for 230 Ansar Allah prisoners .
Also 200 Ansar Allah prisoners , captured in the al-Dhale , Lahij and Aden areas , will be exchanged with 150 STC prisoners and will be transferred to Aden According to pro-Houthis sources , Saudi-led coalition continues intense airstrikes in Yemen : • Saudi-led coalition warplanes conducted 3 airstrikes on the Khab and Shaaf districts ; • Saudi-led coalition warplanes conducted an airstrike on the Kitaf area ; • The Liaison and Coordination Officers ’ Operations Room ( loyal to Ansar Allah ) reported 196 ceasefire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours .
MORE ON THE TOPIC :

Support SouthFront
On September 27, the Saudi-led coalition intercepted and destroyed an armed drone of Ansar Allah forces (also known as the Houthis), which was targeting the Kingdom’s southern region.
According to the coalition spokesperson, the drone was destroyed in Yemen’s airspace, in the desert between Ruwaik and Al-Abram.
On September 24, Saudi-led coalition allegedly shot down one more Ansar Allah’s drone in the North of Marib province.
Due to the prisoners’ exchange agreement reached between the Hadi government and Ansar Allah, 230 Hadi prisoners will be transferred to Marib in exchange for 230 Ansar Allah prisoners. Also 200 Ansar Allah prisoners, captured in the al-Dhale, Lahij and Aden areas, will be exchanged with 150 STC prisoners and will be transferred to Aden
According to pro-Houthis sources, Saudi-led coalition continues intense airstrikes in Yemen:
Saudi-led coalition warplanes conducted 3 airstrikes on the Khab and Shaaf districts;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes conducted 3 airstrikes on the Hazm district;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes conducted 4 airstrikes on the Sarwah district;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes conducted an airstrike on the Kitaf area;
The Liaison and Coordination Officers’ Operations Room (loyal to Ansar Allah) reported 196 ceasefire violations in al-Hudaydah over the past 24 hours.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-28--Armenian President: Turkey Supports Azerbaijani Advance With F-16s, Drones, Advisers And Mercenaries

Turkey is assisting Azerbaijan in the war against the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic with advisers , mercenaries and even F-16 fighters , Armenian President Armen Sarkissian said at the opening of the international forum CYBERSEC2020 .
He added that the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is still possible through dialogue .
The President emphasized that the Armenian nation can not allow the return of the past .
Meanwhile , the Armenian side confirmed that 28 more of its soldiers were killed in clashes with Azerbaijan .
Thus , the confirmed number of Armenian casualties is 59 .
The Azerbaijani military claims that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This number is called ‘ fake news ’ by the Armenian media and military .
At the same time , the gains declared by Azerbaijan on the ground are also yet to be confirmed by any video evidence .
Most of videos released by Azerbaijan show artillery and drone strikes on Armenian positions .
This raises concerns among supporters of the Azerbaijani advance on the Nagorno-Karabakh region that the ground advances were mostly , or at least partly , a media forgery .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Azerbaijan Primes Itself For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Armenia Restores Some Positions Overnight

Support SouthFront
Turkey is assisting Azerbaijan in the war against the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic with advisers, mercenaries and even F-16 fighters, Armenian President Armen Sarkissian said at the opening of the international forum CYBERSEC2020.
“A NATO member, Turkey, provides full assistance to Azerbaijan in the form of drones, cyberattacks, advisers, mercenaries and even F-16 fighters,” Sargsyan said via videoconference.
He added that the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is still possible through dialogue.
“There is a platform – the OSCE Minsk Group with the participation of Russia, the United States and France. We must return to dialogue,” he said.
The President emphasized that the Armenian nation cannot allow the return of the past.
“105 years ago, the Ottoman Empire carried out the genocide of the Armenians. In no case can we allow this genocide to be repeated,” Sargsyan said.
Meanwhile, the Armenian side confirmed that 28 more of its soldiers were killed in clashes with Azerbaijan. Thus, the confirmed number of Armenian casualties is 59. The Azerbaijani military claims that over 550 Armenian soldiers were killed. This number is called ‘fake news’ by the Armenian media and military. At the same time, the gains declared by Azerbaijan on the ground are also yet to be confirmed by any video evidence. Most of videos released by Azerbaijan show artillery and drone strikes on Armenian positions. This raises concerns among supporters of the Azerbaijani advance on the Nagorno-Karabakh region that the ground advances were mostly, or at least partly, a media forgery.
Armenians burn Azerbaijani military equipment on the frontline:
Azerbaijani artillery and combat drones in action:
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-29--Another Horrific Chicago Weekend: 5-Year Old Girl Stabbed, 49 People Shot

There ’ s been another horrific and bloody weekend in Chicago , after multiple weekends running of a surge in shootings and homicides .
As of the start of Monday at least 49 people had been shot , including seven fatally , based on police tallies and local reports .
This past weekend was particularly tragic as it included the stabbing death of a 5-year old girl : Saturday morning police got a call for a person stabbed on Fulton Boulevard near Kedzie Avenue in East Garfield Park .
Serenity had multiple stab wounds .
Neighbors tried to help her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and rushed her to Stroger Hospital of Cook County where she died minutes later .
It is not clear what led to the stabbing , but the suspect walked up to officers and was taken into custody at the scene .
Detectives earlier said they were investigating to see if Austin has a history of mental illness .
Like in prior weekends of widespread violence , the victims of shootings and knifings were overwhelmingly young .
Teenagers were among the latest shooting victims .
Fox News reviews some of the instances as follows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the city began Friday night when a 19-year-old man reportedly was shot in the back and chest while walking in an alley .
He later was pronounced dead at a local hospital .
• None The next morning , a 17-year-old reportedly was standing in an alley in a different part of the city and was approached by two men .
He was shot in the upper torso at about 11:10 a.m. and pronounced dead at the scene , NBC Chicago reported .
• None In other shootings targeting teenagers , a 17-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attack in Englewood Sunday morning , while a 15-year-old male was struck in the leg after being approached by a vehicle later that day in the South Shore , police told the Chicago Sun-Times .
• None On Sunday night , a 20-year-old was reported to have died after being dropped off at a hospital in Englewood with a gunshot wound to his head .
Further , a woman said to be in her mid-20s was retrieved from a river believed killed after multiple stab wounds were found to her body .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of deadly violence were males ranging in age from 15 to 66 years old .

Support SouthFront
Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
There’s been another horrific and bloody weekend in Chicago, after multiple weekends running of a surge in shootings and homicides. As of the start of Monday at least 49 people had been shot, including seven fatally, based on police tallies and local reports.
Via Chicago Sun-Times
This past weekend was particularly tragic as it included the stabbing death of a 5-year old girl:
Saturday morning police got a call for a person stabbed on Fulton Boulevard near Kedzie Avenue in East Garfield Park. Serenity had multiple stab wounds. Neighbors tried to help her before paramedics got there. Paramedics arrived and rushed her to Stroger Hospital of Cook County where she died minutes later. It is not clear what led to the stabbing, but the suspect walked up to officers and was taken into custody at the scene. Detectives earlier said they were investigating to see if Austin has a history of mental illness.
Like in prior weekends of widespread violence, the victims of shootings and knifings were overwhelmingly young. Teenagers were among the latest shooting victims.
Seven people were killed, including two teenagers, and at least 42 others were wounded in shootings across Chicago this weekend. https://t.co/jp1TvquOUb — Chicago Sun-Times (@Suntimes) September 28, 2020
Fox News reviews some of the instances as follows:
The gun violence in the city began Friday night when a 19-year-old man reportedly was shot in the back and chest while walking in an alle y. He later was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
y. He later was pronounced dead at a local hospital. The next morning, a 17-year-old reportedly was standing in an alley in a different part of the city and was approached by two men. He was shot in the upper torso at about 11:10 a.m. and pronounced dead at the scene, NBC Chicago reported.
in a different part of the city and was approached by two men. He was shot in the upper torso at about 11:10 a.m. and pronounced dead at the scene, NBC Chicago reported. In other shootings targeting teenagers, a 17-year-old male was critically wounded in a drive-by attack in Englewood Sunday morning, while a 15-year-old male was struck in the leg after being approached by a vehicle later that day in the South Shore, police told the Chicago Sun-Times.
in Englewood Sunday morning, while a 15-year-old male was struck in the leg after being approached by a vehicle later that day in the South Shore, police told the Chicago Sun-Times. On Sunday night, a 20-year-old was reported to have died after being dropped off at a hospital in Englewood with a gunshot wound to his head.
Chicago homicides up 52%, with vast majority of victims Black or Latino. So let’s focus on cops killing blacks and ignore. #BLM #Chicago #FOX https://t.co/kgHH3BXVjc — Ellen Wilson (@swollsister1) September 18, 2020
Further, a woman said to be in her mid-20s was retrieved from a river believed killed after multiple stab wounds were found to her body.
The majority of victims from this latest weekend of deadly violence were males ranging in age from 15 to 66 years old.
Support SouthFront


southfront--2020-09-29--Azerbaijan And Armenia’s Forces: The Numbers

As of September 24th , Azerbaijan and Armenia have introduced martial law , and the situation is nearing all-out conflict over the Nagorno Karabakh region .
Below is a brief comparison of the capabilities of both countries .
According to Global Firepower , Armenia is ranked 111th out of 138 countries considered for the annual GFP review 2020 .
Azerbaijan , on the other hand sits at 64th position .
In terms of population , Azerbaijan has a population more than 3 times larger , sitting at 9.9 million , compared to Armenia ’ s 3 million .
The available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while Armenia ’ s is at 1.7 million .
The active personnel of the militaries , however , is quite comparable .
For Azerbaijan it sits at 67,000 , while for Armenia it is 45,000 .
However , Baku has almost twice as many reserve personnel sitting at 307 thousand , compared to Yerevan ’ s 171 thousand .
The defense budget gap is massive , with Azerbaijan ’ s sitting at upwards of $ 3.2 billion , while Armenia ’ s is at upwards of $ 225 million .
In terms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ navy , but it is unlikely that such assets would play any role in a possible conflict .
Azerbaijan has 4 submarines , 1 frigate , and 12 patrol crafts .
In terms of air power , the total aircraft Armenia has at its disposal sits at 64 .
Out of it 11 are attack aircraft , 18 are transport aircraft .
In total , Armenia has 42 helicopters , out of which 15 are attack types .
In comparison , Azerbaijan sits at 135 aircraft .
It has 18 fighter jets and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport aircraft .
It has 93 helicopters , out of which 17 are attack types .
Finally , in terms of ground forces , Azerbaijan has 1,451 armored fighting vehicles , 187 units of self-propelled artillery , 227 units of towed artillery , 162 rocket projectors and 570 tanks .
Armenia , on the other hand , has 748 armored fighting vehicles , 38 units of self-propelled artillery , 150 units of towed artillery and 68 rocket projectors .
It has 110 tanks .
In pure numbers , Azerbaijan greatly outclasses the Armenian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegedly deploying Syrian militants to assist , as well as providing it with Bayraktar TB-2 strike UAVs , and it also operating various Israeli types .
Russia , and likely Iran , are potential allies that would likely provide assistance to Armenia in the case of a larger conflict .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Azerbaijan Primes Itself For Another Day Of Intense Hostilities , As Armenia Restores Some Positions Overnight

Support SouthFront
As of September 24th, Azerbaijan and Armenia have introduced martial law, and the situation is nearing all-out conflict over the Nagorno Karabakh region.
Below is a brief comparison of the capabilities of both countries.
According to Global Firepower, Armenia is ranked 111th out of 138 countries considered for the annual GFP review 2020.
Azerbaijan, on the other hand sits at 64th position.
In terms of population, Azerbaijan has a population more than 3 times larger, sitting at 9.9 million, compared to Armenia’s 3 million.
The available manpower for Azerbaijan sits at 5 million, while Armenia’s is at 1.7 million.
The active personnel of the militaries, however, is quite comparable.
For Azerbaijan it sits at 67,000, while for Armenia it is 45,000. However, Baku has almost twice as many reserve personnel sitting at 307 thousand, compared to Yerevan’s 171 thousand.
The defense budget gap is massive, with Azerbaijan’s sitting at upwards of $3.2 billion, while Armenia’s is at upwards of $225 million.
In terms of naval capability, Armenia has no navy, but it is unlikely that such assets would play any role in a possible conflict. Azerbaijan has 4 submarines, 1 frigate, and 12 patrol crafts.
In terms of air power, the total aircraft Armenia has at its disposal sits at 64.
Out of it 11 are attack aircraft, 18 are transport aircraft.
In total, Armenia has 42 helicopters, out of which 15 are attack types.
In comparison, Azerbaijan sits at 135 aircraft. It has 18 fighter jets and interceptors, 29 attack aircraft and 64 transport aircraft.
It has 93 helicopters, out of which 17 are attack types.
Finally, in terms of ground forces, Azerbaijan has 1,451 armored fighting vehicles, 187 units of self-propelled artillery, 227 units of towed artillery, 162 rocket projectors and 570 tanks.
Armenia, on the other hand, has 748 armored fighting vehicles, 38 units of self-propelled artillery, 150 units of towed artillery and 68 rocket projectors. It has 110 tanks.
In pure numbers, Azerbaijan greatly outclasses the Armenian military capability, in addition to Turkey allegedly deploying Syrian militants to assist, as well as providing it with Bayraktar TB-2 strike UAVs, and it also operating various Israeli types.
Russia, and likely Iran, are potential allies that would likely provide assistance to Armenia in the case of a larger conflict.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
Support SouthFront