'On the issue of Ukraine, we are not an ally of Russia,' Armenian PM says as Kremlin fumes over Zelensky visit
Key Points:
- Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that Armenia is "not an ally" of Russia's war against Ukraine and confirmed he will skip the upcoming Victory Day parade in Moscow.
- Russia summoned the Armenian ambassador to express outrage over Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Yerevan, accusing Armenia of betrayal for hosting him.
- Zelensky's visit marked the first by a Ukrainian president to Armenia in 24 years, with both leaders discussing renewed dialogue and a potential future meeting in Kyiv.
- Russia's Foreign Ministry and spokesperson Maria Zakharova condemned Armenia's actions, labeling Zelensky a "terrorist" and questioning Armenia's allegiance.
- Armenia is increasingly distancing itself from Russia, criticizing the CSTO's inaction during the 2022 Nagorno-Karabakh clashes and pursuing closer ties with the European Union, including starting the accession process.