Russia is diversifying its relations in the South Caucasus, with a focus on Armenia. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan highlighted this during an interview with British media outlets. He emphasized that Russia has diversified its relations with both Armenia and Azerbaijan, particularly in terms of regional security. In the past, Armenia was considered a satellite of the Russian Federation within the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), while Azerbaijan was considered a partner. This imbalance caused a crisis in the CSTO, but in 2013, Russia started diversifying its relations with Armenia. Pashinyan also addressed the recent military cooperation agreement between Russia and Azerbaijan, expressing concern and suggesting that Armenia may cease its participation in the CSTO.

Pashinyan also responded to Russia’s statement regarding the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. He explained that Armenia has proposed sending observers from CSTO member states to the border, emphasizing that this announcement does not undermine Armenia’s treaty obligations or its actions within those obligations. With these actions and statements, Pashinyan is highlighting the need for a more balanced approach within the CSTO and expressing Armenia’s concerns about regional security.