[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 129 (Wednesday, July 22, 2020)]
[House]
[Page H3623]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING ESCALATION OF VIOLENCE ALONG ARMENIAN-AZERBAIJANI BORDER

  (Mr. COSTA asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the 
escalating violence that is occurring in the Armenian-Azerbaijani 
border.
  Beginning July 12, the Azeri soldiers approached the Armenian border, 
a place that has been one of contention, and opened fired on Armenian 
civilians in the Tavush Province.
  Since then, the conflict, sadly, has escalated. The Azeri armed 
forces have been indiscriminate in attacking Armenian schools and 
factories, factories producing personal protective equipment that is 
essential during this pandemic.
  Azerbaijan must be held accountable. In the midst of this global 
pandemic, where supplies and resources are already stretched, it is 
critical now more than ever that we work toward peace with Artsakh.
  We must reevaluate the U.S. security assistance to Azerbaijan 
immediately--they are not being appropriate in their actions--as well 
as increase aid to Armenia to counter Azeri aggression.
  In the appropriations bill yesterday, a $20 million augmentation was 
made to the country of Armenia. I urge my colleagues to support that 
and urge immediate action condemning Azerbaijan's disgraceful actions.

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