MOSCOW: The Kremlin, in response to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg’s recent tour of the South Caucasus region, voiced skepticism on Tuesday, asserting that the bloc’s endeavors to enhance its presence in the area were unlikely to contribute to stability.
Stoltenberg concluded a three-day visit, engaging in discussions with leaders from Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia, all of which have historical ties to Moscow as former Soviet Union territories.
In a briefing with reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked, “NATO’s efforts to expand its influence and footprint (in the South Caucasus) are unlikely to bolster stability.” Peskov emphasized that while the Kremlin closely monitored Stoltenberg’s engagements, such diplomatic interactions fell within the sovereign purview of the Caucasian states.
Traditionally wielding significant influence in the South Caucasus, Russia now contends with competing powers, including Turkey, Iran, and Western nations, for regional dominance.
NATO Chief’s South Caucasus Visit
Georgia, aspiring to NATO membership despite Russian troops stationed in its breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, maintains strong ties with the alliance’s member state Turkey. Azerbaijan, likewise, enjoys close relations with Turkey, a NATO member.
Meanwhile, Armenia’s relationship with Moscow has soured in recent years, fueled by dissatisfaction over Russia’s perceived lack of support against neighboring Azerbaijan. Despite being a treaty ally of Russia, Armenia has distanced itself from Moscow’s actions, including the conflict in Ukraine, prompting tensions between the two nations.
Stoltenberg, during his visit to Yerevan on Tuesday, commended Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan for his support of Ukraine, underscoring the country’s pro-Western stance.
