Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has commented on the recent political developments in Armenia, specifically addressing the arrests of former President Robert Kocharyan and his son.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Lavrov discussed these issues during an interview with the "RBC" television channel. He emphasized that Moscow's position remains rooted in the interests of the Armenian people, highlighting the historical ties between Russia and Armenia and noting that Moscow has repeatedly supported Yerevan during challenging periods. However, he stressed that the current Armenian leadership appears to be operating under different priorities.
On August 27, a court ordered the arrest of Armenia's second president, Robert Kocharyan, following the arrest of his son, Sedrak Kocharyan, a day earlier. Investigative bodies have accused them of illegal asset acquisition and abuse of office.
Lavrov also criticized shifts in Armenia's foreign policy, particularly Yerevan's moves toward European Union integration. He noted that this trajectory has caused concern among member states of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). While EAEU partners have urged the Armenian leadership to clarify its stance through a referendum, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has yet to provide a definitive response. Lavrov pointed to a contradiction between Armenia's legislative moves toward EU integration and Pashinyan's non-committal stance, suggesting that this approach reflects a lack of confidence within the current Armenian administration regarding public support.
