The Escalation of the Conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, Causes and Probable Course - Dyner, Anna Maria; Zasztowt, Konrad (Polski Instytut Spraw Międzynarodowych, 2016)
The escalation of fighting between Azerbaijani and Armenian forces in Nagorno-Karabakh was caused by Azerbaijan. The authorities there want to use the conflict to distract its population from impending economic collapse and worsening living conditions as a result of the falling price of oil. The resumption of fighting has resulted in an increase in nationalist sentiments on both sides. Russia may indeed be effective in reducing the tension on both sides of the conflict, but for internal reasons it also may be interested in further escalation