Fears rise of Russia targeting Armenia next

There are growing fears that Armenia could be the next target of Russian aggression under President Vladimir Putin. Advocates for Armenia, a small nation with a population of about three million, believe it is at risk if Russia continues its current trajectory in Ukraine. The UK Foreign Office has identified preventing Russian destabilization efforts in Armenia as a key priority. UK officials support Armenia's move away from Russian influence. Despite this, there are concerns that Armenia faces significant threats to its future. David Grigorian, a senior fellow at Harvard University and a leader in Armenia's National Democratic Alliance, warns that if Russia succeeds in Ukraine, it could shift its focus to Armenia. He advocates for Armenia to join NATO, stressing that a dangerous situation is unfolding. Armenia's relationship with Russia has weakened recently, especially after its parliament began discussions about joining the European Union. Former UK defense minister Tobias Ellwood noted that Armenia's departure from Moscow's military treaties makes it vulnerable to Russia's tactics, including cyber-attacks and political interference. While Armenia and Azerbaijan are close to signing a peace treaty concerning the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region, Grigorian warns this may leave Armenia strategically weak. He highlighted that many ethnic Armenians fled the region following its capture by Azerbaijan in 2023. He views the peace process as potentially leading to further conflicts rather than stability. Grigorian urges international allies to support Armenia in its struggle against Russian domination. He insists that failing to protect Armenia could lead to its collapse as a nation. Meanwhile, the UK government continues to encourage a quick resolution between Armenia and Azerbaijan while standing firmly against Russian efforts to undermine Armenia’s sovereignty.