His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America 8-10 East 79th Street New York, NY 10075
March 14, 2025
Your Eminence,
I write to you with deep concern regarding a statement you made while presenting a cross to His Excellency Archbishop Gregory Michael Aymond during your visit to New Orleans on March 14, 2025. You described the cross as having been made in “constantinople.”
For many years, I have studied maps from every possible source, yet I have never been able to locate a place on Earth by that name. It is profoundly disheartening that someone of your esteemed position—born and raised in the great city of Istanbul—would choose to use such an anachronistic term to refer to the modern, thriving metropolis that has been known as Istanbul since May 29,1453.
Such references are not mere words; they are part of a broader and troubling pattern aimed at undermining the sovereignty and legitimacy of the Republic of Türkiye and diminishing the identity of Istanbul, a city of over 15 million people. The continued use of the term “constantinople” in international discourse serves no constructive purpose and, instead, feeds into a deliberate campaign to delegitimize the Turkish state, discredit its people, and weaponize history for political agendas. I must strongly and respectfully emphasize that there is no city in the world today called “constantinople.” To suggest otherwise is to engage in an insidious form of historical revisionism that disregards the reality of modern Türkiye, a nation built on sovereignty, progress, and coexistence. This narrative does not serve the interests of peace, mutual respect, or interfaith relations.
Demonizing Türkiye is not the answer. If the goal is to foster dialogue and understanding, I urge you to show the same respect for Türkiye’s territorial and historical integrity that you would expect for your own church or cities in Greece. The city is Istanbul. It has been, and it will remain so.
With due respect, I trust you will reflect on the weight of such statements and choose words that foster unity rather than division.
One of the owners of a Turkish restaurant in Haddon Township is still in custody after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents raided the restaurant on Tuesday. Emine Emanet remains in custody while her husband Celal Emanet was released with an ankle monitor. “It is all a test from God,” said their son Muhammad Emanet, who works at the restaurant, Jersey Kebab.
The South Jersey community is rallying behind the Emanet family after ICE raided their family-owned restaurant, detaining Emine Emanet, a mother and primary caregiver to her 15-year-old autistic child. Emine and her husband have no criminal record and have been waiting for years for their green card status to be resolved.
Community members are showing their support through letters, messages, and donations to help the family through this crisis.
Take Action
Write a support letter for the Emanet family: https://tinyurl.com/yrmvenvm
Emine Emanet is currently housed at Elizabeth Detention Center and awaiting her bail hearing. The immigration judge will decide then if she is able to return home on bail or remain in detention. If you knew Emine and are able to attest to her character, write a letter of support to the immigration judge.
President Timothy G. Lynch College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10314 January 1, 2025
Dear President Lynch,
I write to you with deep concern regarding a matter that has the potential to tarnish the reputation of the College of Staten Island (CSI). I am compelled to address the recent remarks made by Ms. Özlem Gönér, who, as a Steering Committee member of the Emergency Committee for Rojava, appeared on Democracy Now on December 24, 2024. In her commentary, Ms. Gönér stated that “Turkey is a major threat to Kurds and to democratic experiments that Kurds have been implementing in the region starting in 2014,” and continued by claiming that “Turkey, Israel, and the U.S. collectively are trying to carve out this land, and Kurds are under threat.” While these statements may appear innocuous on the surface, they carry with them a dangerous misrepresentation of the realities on the ground, particularly concerning Türkiye’s legitimate national security concerns and its role as a NATO ally.
Ms. Gönér’s assertions are not only misleading but are also ideologically aligned with a group that maintains dangerous ties to the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), a Marxist-Leninist organization recognized as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, and Türkiye. Over 45,000 women, children, teachers, doctors and men, lives have been lost to PKK violence. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Ankara on December 12, 2024, aptly described the PKK as “an enduring threat” to Türkiye. Furthermore, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin December 9th 2024 acknowledged Türkiye’s legitimate security concerns, particularly regarding the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF=YPG, PYD), which are closely tied to the PKK. December 13, 2024 Former CIA Senior Agent Glenn Corn on the Cipher Brief said” Turkiye is a much more strategic partner of importance for the U.S then working with YPG, PYD / PKK “Kurds”. Also Former US Ambassador to Turkey David Satterfield : recognizing A NATO Partner and Ally Turkey to defend itself against terror to exercise it right of self-defense CBS News December 18, 2024. December 19 2024 Former US Ambassador to Turkiye James Jeffery “US Backed SDF, given its undeniable ties to the PKK, is a serious national-security threat to Turkiye.”
During Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing on combating ISIS, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) questions Secretary Carter and General Dunford on the U.S. military strategy in working with terrorist PKK and YPG in Syrai and Iraq highlighting the YPG’s connections to the PKK and their acts of terror, which have cost thousands of civilian lives.
The political framework of Rojava, which Ms. Gönér supports, is rooted in the ideology of Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the PKK, thus creating a direct or indirect link between her actions and the PKK’s objectives. It is crucial to distinguish between humanitarian advocacy and political or military affiliations.
Despite any claims of neutrality, the ideological overlap between these groups raises significant concerns about the motivations behind Ms. Gönér’s rhetoric.
First and foremost, Türkiye’s official name—the “Republic of Türkiye”—is not merely a formality but represents the nation’s sovereignty and identity. By referring to the country as “Turkey,” Ms. Gönér, along with others in her circle, undermines the diplomatic respect due to a sovereign state. This disregard for proper naming conventions is a symptom of a broader trend to delegitimize Türkiye and its government on the international stage. Furthermore, Ms. Gönér’s remarks about the deaths of journalists Nazım Daştan and Cihan Bilgin, who she claims were targeted by Türkiye are baseless and lack substantiation in any court of law, including the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). There is no publicly available information supporting her allegations. Her attempt to frame these deaths as a pretext to vilify Türkiye’s counterterrorism efforts only serves to further distort the narrative surrounding the country’s legitimate security actions.
Also US State Department has never taken Ms Goner position.
Ms. Gönér’s comments about Türkiye’s engagement with ISIS are equally misguided. She falsely portrays Türkiye as a supporter of ISIS, a claim that has been repeatedly debunked by numerous international figures. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Ankara on December 12, 2024, correctly described the PKK & ISIS as “an enduring threat” to Türkiye. Additionally, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, on December 9, 2024, recognized Türkiye’s legitimate security concerns, particularly regarding the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which have strong ties to the PKK. Former CIA Senior Agent Glenn Corn, on December 13, 2024, emphasized that Türkiye is a far more strategic partner for the United States than groups like the YPG/PYD/PKK and ISIS . Former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, David Satterfield, former U.S. Ambassador James Jeffrey also affirmed the necessity of recognizing Türkiye’s right to self-defense in the face of these terrorist threats.
Turkey has played a significant role in the fight against ISIS with only country with Soldier going face to face on the ground , receiving recognition from various Western leaders and institutions.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has highlighted the alliance’s and Turkiyes commitment to combating international terrorism, including ISIS.
Think Tanks: Council on Foreign Relations (CFR): While CFR has critically analyzed Turkey’s strategies, it acknowledges Turkey’s active military campaigns against ISIS. In an article titled “Turkey Is Lying About Fighting ISIS,” CFR discusses the complexities of Turkey’s involvement, indicating that while Turkey has engaged ISIS militarily, there are nuances to its broader regional strategy.
António Guterres: In October 2019, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed acknowledging Turkey’s security concerns related to fighting ISIS.
United Nations: Former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized Turkey’s pivotal role in the fight against ISIS
Germany: The German government backed Turkey’s military initiatives against ISIS, with officials noting the importance of Turkey’s role in the regional fight against terrorism. India: In October 2019, during Turkey’s military operations in northeastern Syria, Turkey justified as part of its fight against terrorist groups, including ISIS.
Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia has also publicly supported Türkiye’s fight against ISIS, both in terms of military operations and international diplomatic efforts to combat terrorism.
Indonesia – Indonesian leaders have consistently commended Türkiye’s efforts in combating ISIS and terrorism in the region .
Malaysia – The Malaysian government has recognized Türkiye’s role in the fight against ISIS.
United Arab Emirates (UAE) – UAE leaders have praised Türkiye’s role in countering terrorism, particularly ISIS, noting Türkiye’s significant contributions to the security of the region.
Kuwait – The Kuwaiti government has expressed gratitude towards Türkiye for its contribution to the regional fight against ISIS, especially in terms of humanitarian and military efforts.
Jordan – As a neighboring country affected by ISIS, Jordan has often acknowledged Türkiye’s efforts in fighting ISIS, especially considering their shared interest in regional stability.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has analyzed Turkey’s role in regional security dynamics. In discussions about Turkey’s actions in Syria, CSIS noted the complexities of Turkey’s involvement in the region, including its stance against ISIS.
These acknowledgments underscore Turkey’s active participation in the international effort to combat ISIS, as recognized by U.S. officials and policy analysis organizations.
Moreover, it is important to address Ms. Gönér’s use of the phrase “a big threat to the Kurdish population.” Such rhetoric ignores the fact that over 15 million Turkish Kurds live peacefully within Türkiye, enjoying equal rights under the law. Many of these Kurdish citizens hold positions of great responsibility, including in Türkiye’s highest offices. The PKK, however, is not representative of the Kurdish population; it is a terrorist organization that has waged a violent campaign against both Turkish civilians and the Kurdish people themselves.
o frame Türkiye’s counterterrorism efforts as an attack on the Kurdish people is not only inaccurate but harmful. Türkiye has long been a protector of vulnerable Kurdish populations, as demonstrated by its efforts during the Gulf War, when it sheltered over 500,000 Kurds fleeing Saddam Hussein. Since the Syrian Civil War began in 2012, Türkiye has hosted millions of refugees, including tens of thousands of Syrian Kurds, providing them with refuge from the brutality of PKK and YPG forces.
Türkiye’s anti-terror operations are focused on groups like the PKK and its affiliates, such as the YPG and PYD, which have exploited regional instability to pursue separatist and extremist goals. Not Kurds.
In recent statements, Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) , has emphasized the need for the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK / YPG- PYD ) to cease its activities within the Kurdistan Region. He has described the PKK / YPG, PYD as a “headache” for both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, criticizing the group. Mr. Barzani has called on the terrorist YPG linked to PKK to distance its operations from the people of ”kurdistan”, highlighting that the group’s actions are detrimental to the region’s stability and security.
On December 25th 2024 Abdullah Keddo, a representative of the Kurdish National Council in Syria (ENKS), the main political representative of Kurds “We refuse to accept the presence of the PKK and its affiliates in Syria, all of which must be removed from the region,”
Kurdish Parliament in Iraq: The Kurdish Parliament has expressed gratitude to Turkey for its continued efforts to ensure the safety of Kurds in Iraq, including the provision of military support against ISIS during the 2014-2017 period. Many Kurdish parliamentarians have recognized Turkey’s role in promoting the Kurdish region’s economic development. Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) officials: Many Kurdish leaders in Iraq, particularly from the KRG, have expressed gratitude towards Turkey for its support in protecting the Kurdish population in northern Iraq from Saddam Hussein’s regime following the Gulf War. This support included humanitarian aid, shelter for refugees, and logistical assistance in the establishment of a safe zone in northern Iraq in the early 1990s. These expressions of gratitude and praise for Turkey’s support reflect the relationship that Kurdish groups have had with Turkey over the years, particularly in times of regional conflict. Ms. Goner forgot to mention.
As a NATO ally, Türkiye has continuously stood at the forefront of efforts to combat terrorism and preserve regional stability with us in America. Ms. Gönér’s characterization of Türkiye’s actions as a threat undermines the strategic importance of this alliance and sows division where none should exist. Instead of promoting a nuanced understanding of the situation, she inflames tensions and perpetuates misinformation that damages diplomatic relations between NATO allies.
In addition, I must express my concern that Ms. Gönér’s rhetoric is finding a platform at CSI. The College of Staten Island, a respected institution of higher learning, should not serve as a mouthpiece for groups with potential ties to terrorist organizations. The Emergency Committee for Rojava, of which Ms. Gönér is a part, has been associated with the PKK’s terrorist ideology, and her comments align with this group’s broader goals. It is crucial that CSI consider the implications of hosting individuals who, through their statements and affiliations, may inadvertently or intentionally undermine national security, harm U.S.-Türkiye and Israeli relations, and weaken NATO’s collective strength.
In conclusion, the ongoing campaign to delegitimize Türkiye—both within academic institutions and on the global stage—poses a grave threat to regional stability. The spread of one-sided, inflammatory narratives only exacerbates tensions and diverts attention from the real threats posed by groups like the PKK, YPG, and ISIS. I urge you to take this matter seriously and ensure that College of Staten Island, CSI remains a place where diverse perspectives are encouraged, but not at the cost of the integrity and national security of the United States, Turkiye, Isreal and its NATO allies.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue. I look forward to your response.
Ibrahim Kurtulus 425 Jefferson Ave Staten island, NY 10306 6462677488
Letter to Staten island Staten Island Advance Editor
To the Editor :
Republic of Türkiye (Former Name Turkey): Global Diplomacy, Undermined by Congresswoman
Nicole Malliotakis
Türkiye has long been a cornerstone of regional stability, bridging East and West through diplomacy, trade, and security. Its strategic significance to NATO and its role in counterterrorism, humanitarian efforts, and mediation cannot be overstated. Yet, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, through her positions and actions, consistently undermines U.S.-Türkiye relations, jeopardizing national interests.
Türkiye’s diplomatic acumen has been repeatedly demonstrated. In the ongoing Gaza crisis, Türkiye is mediating the release of hostages through its intelligence and diplomatic channels. U.S. Ambassador Jeff Flake has praised Türkiye’s ability to “engage adversaries and mediate complex negotiations.” Similarly, Türkiye facilitated the release of American basketball star Brittney Griner in 2022, mediating between the U.S. and Russia. These examples highlight Türkiye’s role as an indispensable partner.
Congresswoman Malliotakis’ actions, however, risk alienating this vital ally. She has supported resolutions criticizing Türkiye’s government, ignoring its importance in U.S. efforts to counter Russian aggression and ensure Middle Eastern stability. Former US Ambassador James Jeffrey has aptly noted, “Demonizing Türkiye is not the answer,” underscoring the need for constructive engagement.
As a NATO member, Türkiye controls access to the Black Sea, playing a critical role in containing Russian aggression. It has also been pivotal in combating terrorism, targeting groups like ISIS and the PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by both Türkiye and the U.S. Ambassador Flake acknowledged Türkiye’s contributions, stating, “Improved U.S.-Türkiye relations advance a range of issues essential for American National Interest and security.”
Despite this, Malliotakis has aligned with groups sympathetic to the PKK/YPG, Radical Islamic Cleric Fethullah Gulen, undermining counterterrorism collaboration. Her policies jeopardizes joint security initiatives vital to U.S. national interests.
Türkiye is an emerging economic power and a gateway for trade between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Strengthening economic ties with Türkiye offers significant opportunities for American and Staten Island businesses. Yet, Malliotakis’ divisive rhetoric obstructs such efforts, limiting growth and collaboration.
Moreover, her approach risks emboldening adversaries like Russia and Iran, who exploit divisions within NATO. By sidelining Türkiye, Malliotakis compromises regional stability, endangering both American and allied interests.
President Biden recently emphasized Türkiye’s role in Gaza negotiations. Trump to understands Turkiyes role. This reflects an understanding of Türkiye’s value as a partner in achieving global stability. Congresswoman Malliotakis, however, continues to promote policies that strain this relationship, prioritizing political agendas over national security.
It’s time to recognize Türkiye as a trusted ally and reject the divisive narratives perpetuated by figures like Malliotakis. Strengthening U.S.-Türkiye relations ensures a safer, more prosperous future for both nations. Anything less undermines the very fabric of American diplomacy and security.
Mr. Emre Ismailoglu Turkish Airlines New York Main Office 350 Fifth Avenue, 34th Floor New York, NY 10118 November 22, 2024
RE: Appeal for Zero-Fee Policy for Transporting Human Remains to Türkiye
Dear Mr. Ismailoglu,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to respectfully appeal to Turkish Airlines, one of the most esteemed airlines globally, to consider implementing a zero-fee policy for the transportation of human remains to Türkiye. Such a policy would significantly alleviate the emotional and financial burdens on grieving families, particularly those with limited resources, while reinforcing Turkish Airlines’ reputation as a compassionate and socially responsible organization.
As highlighted by Imam Ahmet Dönmez, the current cost of nearly $2,250 for transporting human remains imposes a severe financial strain on families, especially those relying on modest incomes such as Social Security or government assistance programs like SNAP. These fees are often insurmountable for families already grappling with the devastating loss of a loved one. The Turkish-American community, through voices such as Amerikalı Türk and its editor, Deniz Çelik, has expressed a heartfelt plea for Turkish Airlines to address this pressing issue. This request is not merely logistical but deeply rooted in cultural and emotional values, calling for Turkish Airlines to exemplify the same social responsibility it has consistently demonstrated in other endeavors.
Turkish Airlines is uniquely positioned to lead this initiative without significant financial strain. In 2023, the airline achieved extraordinary financial success, reporting a net profit exceeding $6 billion—more than double its 2022 profits—alongside revenues of $20.9 billion, reflecting a 13.6% year-on-year growth. 2023: For the first nine months, Turkish Airlines reported a net profit of $2.9 billion, surpassing its previous year’s performance for the same period.
By the third quarter of 2024, the airline maintained its remarkable trajectory, earning $1.3 billion in profits. These figures highlight the financial capacity to introduce a zero-fee policy for families in need, further elevating Turkish Airlines’ global standing.
Pakistan International Airlines provides an excellent precedent by offering free transportation of human remains to grieving families. Such a policy demonstrates profound humanity and respect for families navigating immense loss. By adopting a similar measure, Turkish Airlines can alleviate hardship while enhancing its image as a compassionate and community-centered airline.
A practical framework for such a policy could involve waiving fees for families with an annual income below $30,000 or those enrolled in government assistance programs like SNAP. This initiative would mirror the free funeral services offered by municipalities within Türkiye, reflecting the airline’s enduring role as a symbol of Turkish unity and care.
It is worth noting that the Turkish community greatly values Turkish Airlines’ contributions to community events and sponsorships. These efforts have fostered deep admiration and loyalty among diaspora communities. However, implementing a zero-fee policy for the transportation of human remains would surpass all other initiatives, serving as a profound testament to the airline’s compassion and solidarity during families’ most difficult moments.
As Imam Dönmez and others in our community have emphasized, Turkish Airlines is more than an airline; it is a bridge connecting the Turkish diaspora to their homeland. Adopting this policy would not only reflect respect for cultural values but also demonstrate a deep understanding of the emotional and financial challenges faced by families. Such a step would underscore the airline’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing humanity over profit, strengthening its bond with the global Turkish community.
I join Amerikalı Türk and its editor, Deniz Çelik and Imam Ahmet Dönmez kindly urge Turkish Airlines to consider this heartfelt appeal. By adopting a zero-fee or a deeper discount policy for the transportation of human remains, Turkish Airlines would exemplify leadership in corporate social responsibility, further endearing itself to the global Turkish community. We would also welcome a meeting with you to discuss other option.
Thank you for your attention and consideration of this important matter.
We in Azerbaijan see and know what does mean Armenian fake propaganda because we face it at the everyday level and usually try to answer in a related manner. But the Armenian propaganda machine uses even any tiny shell to spread lies and fake information about Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and other Turkic countries…
Now I’m providing an example of the fake propaganda action by Armenians once more.
On August 1, 2024, there was a regular State Department Press Briefing at the White House. Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson made a brief introduction and afterwards answered the questions of journalists.
Let’s see a question by a journalist (maybe Armenian, we don’t know):
Question: “There are Armenian POWs in the jails of Azerbaijan for four years by now, and there are Armenian local politicians from Nagorno-Karabakh again in the prisons of Azerbaijan for nearly one year after Azerbaijan launched another unprovoked attack last fall. According to Freedom House, after Karabakh territory came under Azerbaijani control, Karabakh is the most unfree territory in the world. It’s worse than North Korea. It’s worse than Venezuela, Syria, Afghanistan, you name it”.
This is the first part of the question. The person addressing the question claims that “there are Armenian POWs in the jails of Azerbaijan”.
Are there any?
Not of course! Because all POWs captured during the 44-day war of 2020 were returned to Armenia! Thus, Azerbaijan does not have any single Armenian POW at its disposal…
But why does Armenian propaganda claim that Azerbaijan has the Armenian POWs?
This is purely for propaganda purposes! Armenians know that they need to bring this issue to the attention of the world in a way where people can think that Azerbaijan is so inhumane and keeps POWs. Of course, many million people around the world do not know the realities in the region. Even most of them don’t know where Armenia is, who Armenians are, and so on. But propaganda works anyway…
Then this very “journalist” quotes the Freedom House claiming that “Karabakh is the most unfree territory in the world. It’s worse than North Korea. It’s worse than Venezuela, Syria, Afghanistan”.
Are we surprised?
No!
Because this very Freedom House is a propaganda tool as well to suppress new emerging democracies. This organization has been known for its pro-Armenian stance for dozens of years! It was and is supporting Armenian separatism while being silent about more than 250 thousand Azerbaijanis forcefully expelled from Armenia and those 750 thousand IDPs forced off from Karabakh by Armenian occupants!
Just for a reminder, starting from 1988 Armenia expelled all Azerbaijanis from its territory. Hundreds of Azerbaijanis were killed, and their homes were looted by Armenians. This move served as the start of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict back in those years. Then Armenia occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijani lands early in the 1990s and forced out 750 thousand inhabitants! Azerbaijan managed to free its lands from Armenia’s occupation only after 30 years and during this movement, Armenian inhabitants (approximately 70 thousand people) voluntarily left Karabakh while Azerbaijan repeatedly asked them to stay…
So why the Freedom House is claiming that Karabakh is the most unfree territory? Those 750 thousand Azerbaijanis need to return to Karabakh but can’t because Armenians have wiped off any single home in that territory. That’s why very few people live there and there can’t be any evolution regarding freedoms in that area. The lands freed from Armenian occupation are covered with landmines and even it’s dangerous to walk around.
Let’s see why and how the Freedom House decided that “Karabakh is worse than North Korea”.
Maybe because the Freedom House’s Vice President for Policy and Advocacy is Annie Wilcox Boyajian, whose husband is an Armenian for example?..
This was the first part of the question of blackmailing Azerbaijan. But a “journalist” continues further with his attempt to blackmail Azerbaijan. Let’s see the second part of the question.
Question: “So the question is whether you follow this situation with the collapse of liberties and civil society in Nagorno-Karabakh, if you have any comments on this, and is there anything that this administration can do to help the detained Armenians in – that are jailed in Azerbaijan, whether to – you can help them to release – to be released or assist in any other form? Thank you”.
“Liberties and civil society in Nagorno-Karabakh”? Isn’t this a bit strange? Who can speak about the liberties and civil society in any territory that was under the occupation of a foreign country? In our case, we speak about the Azerbaijani Karabakh region which was under Armenia’s occupation for about 30 years and thus there couldn’t be any sign of liberties and civil society. But this Armenian propaganda mouthpiece claims that “liberties and civil society collapsed” in Karabakh…
What is good, Vedant Patel’s answer was quite accurate, and the terms used were selected very carefully. Let’s see.
MR PATEL: “So, on the context of the broader situation in the South Caucasus, this is something that the Secretary and the department continue to be deeply engaged on. I don’t have any updates for you as it relates to that process. And look, when it comes to detainees, we have been clear and consistent that any country needs to treat all detainees humanely, with dignity, and in accordance with international law, and needs to respect detainees’ human rights, and that continues to be true in this case as well”.
No single word about the so-called POWs! And no mention of Azerbaijan!
The State Department and the US Administration know quite well what is what in the South Caucasus!
And now let’s be clear with those detainees to whom Vedant Patel is paying attention. Yes, Azerbaijan has Armenian detainees. But they are not the citizens of Armenia (except one) and none of them was captured during the war actions. All of them are tried for being a part of an organized crime against civilians which caused the killing of hundreds of people. At the same time, they are citizens of Azerbaijan of Armenian origin, and they need to answer for those killings before the court. This is very simple and understandable, and the US Administration and other major international actors have quite enough information about this…
Now let’s pay attention to the report by Armenian media which claims that Vedant Patel spoke about “Armenian POWs”.
The headline at the News.am reads: “Patel: US State Department is deeply engaged on matter of Armenian POWs held by Azerbaijan”.
Further, the news reads: “On the context of the broader situation in the South Caucasus, the US Secretary of State and the Department continue to be deeply engaged on the matter of Armenian prisoners of war (POWs) being held in Azerbaijan. Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US Department of State, noted about this at Thursday’s Department press briefing”.
Did Vedant Patel use the wording like “Armenian prisoners of war (POWs) being held in Azerbaijan”?
Not of course!
We have quoted Vedant Patel’s answer to this question in full and as we mentioned above, he was quite accurate in using the terms. But the Armenian fake propaganda machine claims, that Vedant Patel spoke about “Armenian POWs”…
So, this is a way how Armenian propaganda works. Most people who read Armenian-style “news” usually don’t investigate the origins. It is usual and understandable for all people around the world. Because those not engaged in politics and news-making are not professionals and they used to believe the media. And Armenians use this opportunity for their ugly propaganda…
