The Armenian prime minister said that, while Armenia was prepared to accommodate those leaving Karabakh, they would not be under direct threat if they stayed put, under Azerbaijani rule.
Many Armenians believe the strategic partnership with Russia has brought their country nothing but ruin and want to look elsewhere, but Moscow retains ample levers to exert pressure.
Baku says it won't stop until it has achieved the dissolution of the Armenian-populated region's de facto government and the disbanding of its armed forces.
The ruling party's mayoral candidate is going up against two credible contenders who aren't affiliated with the largely discredited main opposition parties.
