Armenian Response to Moscow's Discontent

Hours after the deployment of 100 European Union observers in Armenia, official Moscow reiterated that it views the presence of the civil mission as purely a geopolitical motivation and not a genuine interest in stabilizing relations in the South Caucasus. This was stated yesterday evening by Maria Zakharova, a representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

“Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have noted the EU and the West's intention to consolidate their position in our allied Armenia by all means. Everything is being done to drive Russia out of the region and weaken its historic role as the main guarantor of security. The public negative assessments expressed by Baku regarding this initiative are being met with indifference,” Zakharova said.

According to Radio Free Europe, Haik Konjoryan, the head of the ‘Civil Contract’ faction, stated that there is no geopolitical subtext in this process. “Azerbaijan has attacked the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia and occupied areas. Essentially, the mission of the EU observers aims to promote stability in the region and to support the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. This is a process stemming from our needs,” he noted.