Armenia’s Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, stated that the nation’s planned rise in defense spending is not directed at any neighbor or external power, including Azerbaijan. The remark came during a formal address in the Armenian parliament, and it was carried by news agencies such as TASS to illustrate the official stance. Pashinyan emphasized that the military budget increase is framed as a step toward securing peace, rather than provoking conflict.
In his parliamentary remarks, Pashinyan argued that a credible sense of security among citizens stands as the strongest pillar of peace and stability. He voiced assurance that neighboring states likely understand Armenia will not initiate attacks on others. The prime minister underscored the premise that national defense measures are designed to safeguard the population and deter aggression, rather than to wage war or threaten regional rivals.
The president noted a broader regional context, pointing out that although Armenia seeks to strengthen its defenses, Azerbaijan’s defense outlays have historically surpassed Armenia’s by a wide margin. Over the past decade, Azerbaijan’s annual defense spending has been about three times higher than Armenia’s, a fact presented to frame the budgeting discussion within the broader security landscape of the South Caucasus. Such figures are cited to explain why Armenia is pursuing a measured increase in its own defense capabilities as part of a strategic balance rather than a provocation.
Earlier reports indicated that Armenia had planned an approximate 7 percent increase in defense expenditures for the year 2024. This planned ascent is described as a continuation of modernization efforts, aiming to update equipment, training, and readiness across the Armenian Armed Forces. The government has framed these developments as essential for maintaining deterrence and ensuring the country’s sovereignty in a volatile regional environment.
Alongside the spending discussion, Armenia has engaged with international partners on diversifying its arms supply channels. In particular, talks with the European Union regarding the provision of non-lethal support to the Armenian army were highlighted. The government signaled an intent to expand procurement avenues beyond a single source, seeking a more resilient and diversified supply chain to bolster capabilities without escalating risk or dependency. This approach aligns with broader national security objectives that emphasize readiness, modernization, and sustainable defense stewardship.
In addition to budgetary and supply considerations, Pashinyan has previously explained Armenia’s decision not to participate in certain CSTO events. The stance reflects a nuanced position within regional security architectures, balancing alliances with the need for strategic autonomy. The administration has argued that participation in alliance structures must align with Armenia’s national interests and long-term stability, especially in light of ongoing regional tensions and the evolving threat environment. The dialogue around CSTO involvement continues to shape perceptions of Armenia’s security posture and its diplomatic outreach to partners in Europe and beyond.
Across these developments, Armenian leadership stresses that the ultimate aim is to ensure peace through credible defense, transparent budgeting, and diversified partnerships. The government asserts that a stronger defensive capability serves as a stabilizing factor, discouraging potential aggression and supporting a durable peace in the South Caucasus. Observers note the careful calibration of military spending with political messaging, seeking to reassure citizens while communicating a steady commitment to sovereignty and regional balance.
As discussions proceed, analysts monitor how Armenia translates budgetary plans into tangible improvements on the ground. Upgrades to equipment, logistical readiness, and training programs are expected to form the core of modernization efforts. Public statements continue to frame these investments as necessary measures to safeguard the country and guard against external pressure, rather than as a signal of imminent conflict. The evolving strategy will likely unfold alongside ongoing diplomacy with international partners, aimed at fostering secure borders, stable regional relations, and lasting peace for the Armenian people.