Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's decision not to participate in the summit of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) seen as a significant shift in Armenia’s foreign policy, which has traditionally been closely aligned with Russia, Report informs, citing an article in BNN Breaking.
"The relationship between Russia and Armenia has deteriorated in recent times ... Armenia is now exploring multiple avenues to diversify its security arrangements, a move seen as an attempt to lessen its dependence on Russia. The decision to skip the CSTO summit is part of this broader strategy," the author believes.
The publication notes that Prime Minister Pashinyan’s criticism of CSTO for failing to protect Armenian interests has only added fuel to the fire. However, it’s important to note that Armenia has not made a formal decision about leaving the CSTO.
"Russia has long held suspicions about the West’s influence over Armenia. The ongoing tensions between Armenia and Russia are expected to escalate further with Prime Minister Pashinyan’s decision to stay away from the CSTO summit," the author notes.