YEREVAN: Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Friday criticized Russia, alleging that Moscow had failed to deliver weapons for which Yerevan had already made payments. The remarks underscored the growing strain in Armenia’s relationship with its longstanding ally, particularly after Russian peacekeepers were unable to prevent Azerbaijan’s offensive to retake the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which was previously controlled by Armenia.
Pashinyan, in televised comments, stated, “There is a problem related to the delivery of (Russian) weaponry and equipment for which we have already paid.” He mentioned that discussions are ongoing to resolve this issue and pointed out that Russia itself has a need for weapons, likely referring to Russia’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine.
Additionally, Pashinyan accused Russia’s media of destabilizing Armenia’s political situation, citing “certain problems” with respecting a bilateral agreement that discourages interference in each other’s internal affairs. The Prime Minister emphasized that Yerevan has invited Moscow for consultations to address these concerns in a “friendly and normal atmosphere.”
Armenian Alleges Russia of Failing to Fulfill Obligations
Armenia is a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), led by Moscow, which obliges Russia to defend Armenia in the event of a foreign invasion. However, Pashinyan has previously criticized the CSTO, accusing it of failing to fulfill its obligations, particularly during instances when Azerbaijan allegedly seized small pockets of Armenian territory.
In a notable display of discontent, Armenia opted not to participate in a CSTO summit in Belarus on Thursday. This move signals a widening gap in the once-solid relationship between Armenia and Russia, highlighting the challenges posed by recent regional conflicts.
In September, Azerbaijan swiftly reclaimed the Nagorno-Karabakh region from Armenian separatist forces in a military operation, marking a significant geopolitical shift in the South Caucasus.
