Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin spoke about Armenia-Russia relations in an interview with 'Izvestia'. He noted that he agrees with Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's recent statement that bilateral relations are not experiencing the best of times. According to Galuzin, Armenia allegedly baselessly criticizes Russia and the CSTO. According to him, it is the consequence of the anti-Russian policy of the West. "The West wants to push Moscow out of the South Caucasus, but that is unrealistic," the diplomat stated.
"The Russian side considers Armenia as its closest ally, as a very important partner in the field of security, both in accordance with the obligations undertaken within the CSTO framework and bilateral agreements," Galuzin emphasized. He added that Moscow is ready to continue working with Yerevan in CSTO and EAEU.
Galuzin noted that they expect that the understanding of Russia's unique, indisputable role will prevail in Armenia. "No West can replace us," said the Deputy Foreign Minister.
The Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation also informed that the Ambassador of Moscow in Yerevan, Sergey Kopyrkin, returned to Armenia after the consultation. "Calling the Ambassador for consultation is a standard procedure that happens often," Galuzin noted.
