Trump again avoids term “genocide” in April 24 statement

U.S. President Donald Trump has once again refrained from using the term “genocide” in his annual statement marking the events of April 24, 1915 in the Ottoman Empire, instead referring to them as the “Great Catastrophe” (Meds Yeghern).

In a statement published on the White House website, Washington said it honours the memory of “countless Armenians who were exiled and brutally massacred.”

“We stand in steadfast solidarity with every Armenian American and Armenians around the world during this day of remembrance for the devastating events that occurred over 100 years ago, which continue to live in the collective memories of these communities today,” the statement reads.

Trump also underlined continued cooperation between the United States and Armenia, stressing that his administration is working to strengthen the strategic partnership.

“My Administration is strengthening our strategic partnership by delivering significant opportunities for the Armenian people and promoting lasting stability across the South Caucasus region,” he said.