U.S. State Department Spokesperson Ned Price, in a Twitter post, welcomed yesterday’s release and repatriation of five Armenian war captives held in Azerbaijan.

“We welcome reports of Armenian detainees returned home, a positive development for Armenia and Azerbaijan peace process. We hope all remaining detainees return home soon and Azerbaijan and Armenia continue taking steps to build trust and resolve outstanding differences.”

The release of the five Armenians, taken prisoner during or shortly after the 2020 Artsakh war, follows the recent meeting, hosted by European Council President Charles Michel, in Brussels between Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.

During the meeting, Michel stressed the importance of the release of Armenian detainees.

On Thursday, Azerbaijani news outlets reported that a Baku court had reduced the prison sentences of four of the five servicemen repatriated to Armenia later in the day.

European Council President Charles Michel has also welcomed the release of the five Armenians.

“Welcome release by Baku of five more Armenian detainees, following 31/8 discussions in Brussels. That handover is taking place bilaterally is a first - and to both and credit. Addressing all outstanding humanitarian issues is a key priority.”