Russia demands clarity from Armenia, says Khosrov Harutyunyan

Former Speaker of Armenia’s National Assembly Khosrov Harutyunyan believes that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s statements regarding relations with Russia should be treated with reservations.

In an interview with Aysor.am, Harutyunyan recalled Pashinyan’s speech at the European Parliament, describing it as directed against Armenia’s strategic partner, Russia. According to him, the Prime Minister’s current statements about “close and friendly relations” with Russian President Vladimir Putin do not appear convincing.

Harutyunyan also referred to the Putin-Pashinyan meeting on April 1, noting that the Russian President clearly underscored Armenia’s economic dependence on the Eurasian Economic Union and the Russian market.

In his view, Moscow expects Yerevan to take Russia’s political and strategic interests into account as well.

According to the former speaker, the current geopolitical environment has made major powers more rigid and demanding, forcing smaller states to clearly define their positions. He argued that Armenia has no realistic prospect of joining the European Union in the near future, while Russia is demanding a direct answer from Armenia: “Are you with us or against us?”

Harutyunyan also warned that Armenia’s policy within the EAEU could have consequences if it contradicts the bloc’s interests. He added that messages from the Russian leadership are directed not only at Armenia’s authorities but also at Armenian society, particularly during the pre-election period.

He emphasized that the issue is not about “loving” Russia, but about demonstrating a responsible approach to Armenian-Russian relations based on Armenia’s state interests.