There is a factor that cannot but cause concern. Kopirkin on Armenian-Russian relations

The Armenian-Russian relations are undergoing a test of strength, and the past year was complex, stated Sergey Kopirkin, the Ambassador of Russia to Armenia, in an interview with Sputnik.

He noted that the tragic events, particularly the emigration of the Armenian population from Nagorno-Karabakh, could not fail to impact the state of bilateral relations. "It is no secret that a significant part of the responsibility for what happened is preferred to be placed on Russia. This has affected our political dialogue," mentioned Kopirkin.

According to the diplomat, it is known that the Armenian leadership has now questioned the security guarantees that have been in place until now, taking a path toward diversification in this area. "All of this could not fail to affect the atmosphere of our relations. I must say that these relations are undergoing a kind of test of strength right now," said the ambassador.

Russia has not changed its approach to relations with Armenia. The Russian leadership, according to him, has repeatedly stated that Moscow continues to regard its relations with Yerevan as allied. There are about 200 legal documents that form the basis of the bilateral relations, including those related to security guarantees. The Russian side is doing everything possible to ensure that the intensity of cooperation in various fields does not diminish.

Kopirkin believes that despite the existing problems, bilateral relations continue to remain strong. At the same time, he noted that there is a factor that cannot but cause concern: recently, something has emerged in the region that can be described as a geopolitical confrontation. "Western countries, which are trying to exploit the existing problems in the region, are betting on weakening Russia's role here, and perhaps even pushing it out, while certainly creating rifts in our bilateral relations with the Republic of Armenia. This goal is not hidden. American officials directly place relations with Armenia in the context of the struggle against Russia and Iran. All of this causes serious concern and anxiety," Kopirkin said.

He expressed hope that the objective interests and foundations of the relations between the two countries and peoples are strong enough to overcome the current challenges.