Negotiations culminated in a ceasefire agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, effectively ending the intense fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh. This conflict had escalated in late September 2020, resulting in significant casualties and displacements. The ceasefire agreement was facilitated by Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting Russia's critical role as a mediator in the South Caucasus. Under the terms of the agreement, Armenian forces were required to withdraw from contested areas, while Azerbaijani forces would retain control over territories they had recaptured during the conflict. Additionally, the agreement stipulated the deployment of Russian peacekeepers to monitor the ceasefire and ensure stability in the region.The announcement was made on national television and raised immediate concerns among Armenians, leading to large protests in Yerevan. Citizens criticized their government for what they perceived as a capitulation in the face of Azerbaijani advances. The protests reflected deeper feelings of betrayal and insecurity as many feared losing their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh. The ceasefire thus not only marked the end of military conflict but also triggered domestic unrest in Armenia, challenging the legitimacy of the Armenian leadership. The situation illustrated the intricate ties between territorial disputes and national identity in the post-Soviet space, showcasing the ongoing ethnic tensions that have characterized the region for decades.