The recent Nagorno-Karabakh crisis has cast a spotlight on the deteriorating relationship between Armenia and Russia, two former allies. The unresolved conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the breakaway region has lasted for decades, and the two sides now appear to be on the brink of all-out war.
The long-simmering conflict has been exacerbated in recent months by increased tensions between Armenia and Russia. As Armenia has traditionally been backed by Russia in the conflict, its shift away from Russian influence has caused alarm in Moscow. This is especially the case after Armenia opted to sign a new peace deal with Azerbaijan which resulted in Armenia ceding some of the country’s territory.
This decision to sign was reportedly made without consulting Moscow, leaving the Kremlin feeling betrayed and upset. This has led to Russia imposing economic sanctions on Armenian imports, suspending flights between the countries and freezing the activities of some Armenian companies.
The crisis has raised the difficult question of what could be done to restore Armenia and Russia’s relationship. One of the most important steps would be for Russia to take a more balanced approach to the conflict. This could involve working with both Armenia and Azerbaijan on finding a peaceful and mutually acceptable solution.
Another key factor is the greater political and economic integration of Armenia into the Western world. Armenian foreign minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan has been attempting to improve ties with the United States and the European Union, calling for a greater support of Armenia’s regional and geopolitical ambitions.
Finally, there is a need for stronger defense ties between Armenia and Russia. Even though military collaboration between the two countries has been dwindling recently, there is still an opportunity for them to collaborate on defense issues such as objectives in the Caspian Sea and the surrounding region.
It is clear that things have become more complicated between Armenia and Russia, and solving the crisis will require careful diplomacy and a more balanced approach to the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. Working together, Armenia and Russia must find a way to bridge their differences and restore their relationship for the sake of stability in the region.
