An extraordinary session of the CSTO took place today

On January 10, an extraordinary session of the Collective Security Council of the CSTO was held in a video conference format. The meeting discussed the situation in the Republic of Kazakhstan and measures to normalize the situation in the country.

Photo: Internet

At the request of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, peacekeepers from the CSTO were sent to Kazakhstan on January 6. About 4,000 military personnel from CSTO member states were deployed to Kazakhstan. Russia sent 3,000 troops, Belarus – 500, Tajikistan – 200, Kyrgyzstan – 150, and Armenia – 100.

The parties discussed the situation in Kazakhstan and supported the authorities’ efforts to normalize the situation. They also emphasized the importance of timely assistance within the framework of the CSTO.

In early January, mass protests took place in Kazakhstan due to rising prices for liquefied gas. Later, the protests escalated into mass riots. Major clashes with law enforcement occurred in Almaty. President Tokayev referred to the protesters as “terrorists” and ordered law enforcement to open fire on the protesters without warning. At the same time, he requested military assistance from CSTO member states.