Armenia’s Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, has announced that his country will be leaving the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a security bloc led by Russia. This decision comes as Armenia’s relationship with Moscow deteriorates, with Pashinyan criticizing the CSTO for failing to provide protection.
During a speech to lawmakers, Pashinyan accused CSTO members of supporting Azerbaijan during the recent conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. He expressed disappointment in the alliance’s inability to fulfill its obligations and accused some members of planning the war against Armenia. Despite this announcement, Armenia’s Foreign Minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, clarified that a full withdrawal from the CSTO has not been confirmed.
Armenia’s ties with Russia have been strained since Moscow did not intervene in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. In addition, Armenia’s decision to join the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the issuance of an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin have further complicated relations between the two countries.
On the domestic front, Armenia has experienced ongoing anti-government protests, particularly regarding land concessions to Azerbaijan. Recent clashes between demonstrators and police have resulted in injuries, highlighting the deep divisions within Armenian society.
As Armenia navigates its geopolitical challenges, including negotiations with Azerbaijan over a peace treaty and border demarcation, the country finds itself at a crossroads. The decision to leave the CSTO marks a significant shift in Armenia’s foreign policy and raises questions about its future alliances and security arrangements. The ongoing tensions with Russia and internal unrest underscore the complex and fragile nature of Armenia’s current political landscape.