Vagharshak Hakobyan on Armenia's Actions Against Russia

Any statement aimed at enhancing Armenia's security and assurance guarantees is, of course, welcome, regardless of which country it concerns. This was stated today by Vagharshak Hakobyan, deputy chairman of the Committee on Regional and Eurasian Integration and MP from the ruling party, during a press conference in the National Assembly, commenting on the statement by British Armed Forces Minister James Heappey, which indicated that Britain would support Armenia in the face of Russian threats.

“There has been a statement about our suspension of membership in the CSTO; in reality, we are taking serious actions to enhance Armenia's security guarantees and acquire military equipment. I would like us to view the issue in that context. We must acknowledge that Armenia is a sovereign country and can look for other markets in addition to economic cooperation but also collaborate with partners in military matters. The fact shows that we have been members of a military alliance that has not operated with the effectiveness we expected. Of course, we must use all possible means related to Armenia's security,” said the ruling party MP.

In response to assessments suggesting that Armenia aims to become “Ukraine 2,” he stated: “I do not want to classify our assessments in two ways. Firstly, all of Armenia's steps are directed at enhancing security. Secondly, I absolutely do not consider such identifications appropriate. Thirdly, Armenia is a member of the EAEU, and there is a Russian military base in Armenia. On the other hand, we have cooperation with France and Europe. Any international partner taking steps, statements, or actions aimed at enhancing Armenia's security, we will gratefully and positively perceive and accept it.”

When asked whether this was against Russia, he replied, “What does it mean, even against Russia? Armenia is not doing anything against any country, including Russia. We are still allies with Russia and are in the same economic bloc. The assessment that some of our steps are aimed against the Russian Federation is provocations and have no connection with reality. We work in favor of Armenia, and if such work can be perceived somewhere as against someone, I consider this a misappropriation of the political situation and a very wrongful interpretation. Such a thing does not exist.”