Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov commented on the shifting diplomatic landscape surrounding Armenia, saying that Western nations are actively courting Yerevan in a bid to align with it against Moscow. He spoke about these dynamics on a broadcast of the television channel Russia 1, framing the discussion around Armenia’s independent choices in foreign relations and security ties.
Lavrov stressed that Moscow does not harbor prejudice toward Armenia’s external partners and friends. He reiterated that Russia, as a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and a long-standing ally, supports Armenia in deciding how to engage with other states and blocs. The emphasis was on autonomy in foreign relations rather than opposition to any particular partner.
In his remarks, the diplomat underscored that the Russian Federation has never allied with one side against another. The stance was presented as consistent with Moscow’s approach to international partnerships, where cooperation with Armenia is valued while respect for Armenia’s sovereign choices is maintained.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia stands ready to provide humanitarian support to the Armenian people and reaffirmed Armenia’s status as an allied country within the Russian security framework. The commitment to humanitarian assistance was framed as part of a broader, enduring partnership between the two nations.
Prior to these comments, Dmitry Medvedev, serving as Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, reminded a colleague about sensitivities surrounding flirtations with NATO and the implications of public messaging on the relationship with Armenia. The remarks touched on Armenia’s leadership, including Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, and the public discourse around partners and perceived threats to Russia.
In related comments, Pashinyan has previously described Armenia’s security dependence on Russia as an area warranting careful assessment. He has indicated that security arrangements should reflect Armenia’s needs and strategic interests, inviting a nuanced dialogue about how Armenia collaborates with its partners while maintaining its own security calculus against evolving regional challenges. The dialogue reflects ongoing tensions and the balancing act required by Armenia as it navigates relationships with traditional allies and new partners, in a regional environment characterized by shifting alliances and competing security concerns. The perspective emphasizes Armenia’s right to chart an independent course in international diplomacy while recognizing the enduring framework of its alliance with Russia, as well as the potential for cooperation with other security partners.
Citations: official statements from the Russian Foreign Ministry and televised remarks on Russia 1, presidential statements, and security council commentary are recorded in state media and governmental communiqués. These sources are cited to reflect the positions publicly asserted by Russian authorities during this period.