After weeks of intense fighting, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has finally come to an end with an agreement signed by Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia on November 9th, 2020. The agreement, which calls for a cease-fire, marks a significant milestone in the decades-long conflict that has claimed countless lives and displaced thousands of families.

The Nagorno-Karabakh region is a disputed territory located in the South Caucasus region, bordering Armenia and Azerbaijan. The conflict dates back to the early 20th century when the region was under Soviet rule. In 1988, the region`s predominantly Armenian population demanded to be reunited with Armenia, leading to a bloody war that lasted until 1994. As a result, Nagorno-Karabakh declared independence but was not recognized internationally, remaining under de facto control of ethnic Armenian forces.

The latest round of fighting started in late September 2020, with Armenia and Azerbaijan accusing each other of initiating the conflict. The fighting quickly escalated, leading to the deaths of over 5,000 people and displacement of tens of thousands. The international community, including the United Nations, called for an immediate end to the hostilities and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.

The trilateral agreement signed between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia stipulates a complete cease-fire, the return of Azerbaijan`s control over several territories, including the strategically significant city of Shusha, and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers in the region. The agreement also calls for the return of internally displaced people, the exchange of prisoners of war, and the establishment of transport links in the region.

The agreement has been met with mixed reactions from both sides. While it provides some relief to the people of the region, it has also been criticized for favoring Azerbaijan and not addressing the fundamental issues of the conflict. The agreement did not mention the status of Nagorno-Karabakh, and its future remains uncertain.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has been one of the most protracted conflicts in the region, and the agreement signed in November may provide an opportunity for peace, stability, and reconciliation. However, lasting peace can only be achieved if all parties involved commit to a diplomatic solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict and ensures the rights and security of all people in the region.