The Ostensible Assistance to the Armenians After the Conclusion of the Russian-Turkish Treaty of 1724

Below is the order of the Highest Russian Council to Commander of the Caspian Forces General Dolgorukov dated August 15, 1727, regarding the Turkish attack on Armenian territories after the conclusion of the Russian-Turkish Treaty of 1724 and the ostensible assistance to Armenians.

“In accordance with our previous orders, you must gather as many troops as possible and bring them into Persia to simulate actions and inspire Armenians with hope towards us.

Proceeding from the situation, perform anything that may be helpful or corresponds to our benefits in the best possible way. And now, it is necessary to strengthen the Armenians so that they stand firm against the Turks and do not obey them.

Depict spectacles showing the weakness of the Turks, which will inspire the Armenians. In the near future, there is a reason for us to receive a lot of support for joint actions as well. Those Armenians whom you, encouraging, sent here, we will send to you, and you will send them to their compatriots.”

So, “inspiring” and “encouraging”, the Russians naturally violated all the promises made to Armenians, and the Artsakh people remained to hold back the Turkish attacks alone for years.

And even General Dolgorukov who refused to provide troops (Empress Catherine had promised to support the Armenians by special decree) at a meeting with the delegation of Yesayi Hassan Jalalyan noted that it is not clear to the human mind how Armenians were resisting such a strong adversary.

David Fidanyan

An excerpt from the book of Yuri Barsegov: “Nagorno-Karabakh in international law and world politics.” “Нагорный Карабах в международном праве и мировой политке”.