Armenia freezes participation in Russian-led security bloc

Armenia freezes its CSTO participation, saying that the Russian-led bloc failed to protect the country during its war against Azerbaijan

Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian announced in a recent interview that Armenia has decided to freeze its participation in the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO). Pashinyan cited the failure of the pact, stating that it did not meet Armenia’s needs, especially in 2021 and 2022.

Pashinian expressed concerns about Azerbaijan’s actions, indicating that Baku was not adhering to the necessary principles for a lasting peace treaty. He suggested that Azerbaijan might be preparing for another attack.

Despite these developments, Pashinian clarified that there are currently no discussions about closing a Russian military base in Armenia, as this is subject to separate treaties.

Over recent months, Pashinian has voiced dissatisfaction with Armenia’s longstanding relationship with Russia, highlighting that Armenia could no longer rely solely on Russia for its defense.

What happened before?

The tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan stem from two wars fought over the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan gained control of the territory in 2020 during the second war.

Pashinian indicated that the prospects for a long-term peace treaty were hindered by statements from Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. He stressed that without recognition of the principles of territorial integrity and border inviolability by Azerbaijan, a peace treaty would not be possible.

Furthermore, Pashinian mentioned that Azerbaijan’s rhetoric suggested preparations for a potential new attack on Armenia.

Key components for a peace treaty include border demarcation and the establishment of regional transport corridors, often traversing each other’s territories. Aliyev has also raised the issue of determining control over ethnic enclaves on both sides of the border.

Pashinian and Aliyev have engaged in discussions about moving toward a peace treaty at various meetings, including talks held recently at the Munich Security Conference.

Source: Newsroom

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