Armenia recently announced that it will not be participating in the financing of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a Russian-led security alliance. This decision is part of a series of steps taken by Armenia to distance itself from the alliance, which includes Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Since coming to power in 2018, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has worked to deepen ties with Western countries like France, the U.S., and India, drawing criticism from Russia. Armenia threatened to leave the CSTO if its concerns regarding collective security were not addressed, following a rift between Yerevan and Moscow over the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh.
The Russian government confirmed that it has begun withdrawing its “peacekeeping” contingent from Nagorno-Karabakh. This move further strained relations between Armenia and Russia, as the CSTO did not intervene during Azerbaijan’s offensive against Armenia in September 2023. Pashinyan had previously stated that Armenia had “frozen” its participation in the CSTO due to the alliance’s failure to uphold its objectives. Additionally, Armenia has accused Russia of being an unreliable partner and has shown interest in strengthening ties with the West. Armenia joined the International Criminal Court in January 2024, joining 123 other countries in obliging to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin if he enters Armenian territory, a move criticized by the Kremlin.
The decision by Armenia to distance itself from the CSTO and strengthen ties with Western countries has further strained its relationship with Russia. The government of Prime Minister Pashinyan has actively sought to diversify Armenia’s security partnerships beyond Russia, leading to conflict with Moscow. The growing rift between Yerevan and Moscow was exacerbated by Russia’s lack of intervention during Azerbaijan’s offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh. Armenia’s decision to freeze its participation in the CSTO and consider EU membership reflects its desire to align itself with Western values and security frameworks, signaling a shift in its foreign policy.
Armenia’s actions indicate a significant departure from its previous alliance with Russia within the CSTO and its new approach to security and foreign relations. By refusing to finance the CSTO, withdrawing from participation, and seeking EU membership, Armenia is signaling a move towards greater independence and diversification of its international partnerships. The decision to join the International Criminal Court and potentially arrest Russian President Putin if he enters Armenian territory demonstrates Armenia’s willingness to challenge Russian influence and assert its sovereignty. These developments highlight a shift in Armenia’s foreign policy towards the West and away from its historical ties with Russia.
Russia’s response to Armenia’s actions, including the withdrawal of its peacekeeping contingent from Nagorno-Karabakh and criticism of Armenia’s decisions, reflects the strain in their bilateral relationship. The Kremlin’s confirmation of the withdrawal and condemnation of Armenia’s membership in the International Criminal Court indicate its displeasure with Armenia’s moves towards the West. The conflict between Armenia and Russia within the CSTO and over security issues in the region has led to a breakdown in trust and cooperation. Armenia’s efforts to distance itself from Russia and strengthen ties with Western countries will likely continue to impact its relationship with Moscow and regional security dynamics.
