Nagorno-Karabakh conflict: Ceasefire deal struck

Fears of a civil war have been averted for now, with the announcement of a ceasefire between Armenian separatists and Azerbaijan. The deal relating to the Nagorno-Karabakh region, ends a 24-hour surge in violence however the situation still remains volatile.

Damage to residential buildings and vehicles in Stepnakert, Nagorno-Karabakh. Credit: SARGSYAN/OC MEDIA HANDOUT/EPA

The agreement comes 24 hours after Azerbaijan launched a new military offensive against the local Armenian government in Nagorno-Karabakh, responding to the death of six people - including four police officers in two landmine explosions.

That move ratcheted up tensions, adding to an effective nine-month blockade imposed by Azerbaijan on the landlocked Nagorno-Karabakh region, achieved by blocking the only route from Armenia, known as the Lachin Corridor.