Markov: Armenia's decision to ratify ICC Rome Statute might radically change Moscow's attitude towards Yerevan

Armenia's decision to ratify the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) will deal a blow to relations between Moscow and Yerevan, Russian political scientist, director of the Center for Political Studies Sergey Markov told Report.

"If Armenia were an ally of Russia, then it would suspend the bureaucratic procedure for Armenia's entry into the ICC. Moreover, this does not require high-profile political decisions. The Armenian authorities deliberately decided to publish the position of the Constitutional Court right now, after the decision of the ICC to issue a warrant for the arrest of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Undoubtedly, this was done on purpose," Markov said.

According to him, such a decision will deal a serious blow to Armenian-Russian relations. The Russian political scientist also noted that this could be the last straw that would break the patience of the Russian leadership.

"This is all building up step by step - the invitation for the EU mission to come to the region and statements against the CSTO. Some of this can lead to a fundamental change in Russia's attitude towards Armenia," the expert stressed.

He noted that public opinion also plays an important role: "The Russian media are trying not to talk about such a decision by Armenia, which is sharply unfriendly both towards Russia and towards President Putin in particular."