Russian Concerns Over Armenia's NATO Aspirations

The Russian Foreign Ministry criticizes Armenia's growing ties with NATO, expressing concern for regional stability. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warns that Armenia's Western pivot could destabilize the South Caucasus. This shift comes as Armenia grows increasingly dissatisfied with Russia's role in regional security, particularly after Azerbaijan's recent actions.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova expressed regret and concern on Thursday over Armenia's increasing alignment with NATO. According to Zakharova, Yerevan's actions could destabilize the South Caucasus region.

Highlighting the issue in her routine press briefing, Zakharova noted that Armenia's inclination towards the U.S.-led alliance not only arouses regret but also raises concerns about Armenia's future. She emphasized that Yerevan's shift towards the West risks destabilizing a region where Russia has traditionally held significant influence.

Yerevan, traditionally seen as Russia's closest ally in the region, has been warming up to NATO due to strained relations with Moscow. Armenian officials attribute their changing stance to Russia's failure to shield them from longtime adversary Azerbaijan, which reclaimed the Nagorno-Karabakh region in September 2023.

Zakharova also sounded the alarm over U.S.-Armenian military exercises, which are set to conclude on July 24. Earlier this year, Armenia froze its participation in the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), further straining its ties with Russia.

(With inputs from agencies.)