Russia: Strengthening Armenia's Relations with NATO Poses Risks

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated today, Thursday, that Armenia's rapprochement with NATO is a cause for regret and concern. She added that Yerevan's actions pose risks of destabilizing the broader South Caucasus region. Armenia has strengthened its ties with the alliance in recent years amid increasing tensions with Moscow, despite traditionally being Russia's closest ally in the region. Zakharova noted that the upcoming U.S.-Armenian military exercises, set to conclude on July 24, are particularly concerning, especially following Yerevan's suspension of participation in a Moscow-led security alliance. She clarified in a regular press conference that the deepening of relations between Yerevan and NATO is "not only a cause for regret but also a concern for the future of Armenia."