Armenia's Shift Away from Russia: A New Strategic Direction

Armenia is undergoing a significant shift in its foreign policy, moving away from its long-standing alliance with Russia. Recent tensions with Azerbaijan and strategic moves towards peace negotiations highlight this change. Armenia is also considering a ban on Russian media and is looking to strengthen ties with China as an alternative ally. These developments signal a potential realignment in the South Caucasus, raising concerns for Putin as Armenia's actions could reshape the region's geopolitical landscape. Read on to explore the implications of Armenia's new direction.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 3, 2025, 14:07 IST

Armenia's Changing Dynamics with Russia

The influence of Russia in the South Caucasus is diminishing. Azerbaijan has already shown defiance against Russia, and now Armenia, once a close ally, is also taking strategic steps against Putin. Recent developments indicate that Armenia is no longer willing to rely on Russia.

While tensions between Azerbaijan and Russia reach a peak, Armenia has taken three significant actions that could complicate Putin's position.

Why Tensions are Rising Between Azerbaijan and Russia

The recent strain in relations between Russia and Azerbaijan stems from the deaths of two Azerbaijani brothers. These brothers, Huseyn and Ziyaddin Safarov, were detained by Russian authorities in Yekaterinburg during an investigation into mafia-style killings. Shortly after their detention, both died—one reportedly from a heart attack, while the cause of the other’s death remains under investigation. This incident has incited outrage in Azerbaijan, with the government dismissing Russian claims as a political conspiracy. In connection with this case, Russia has also arrested six additional Azerbaijani citizens on murder charges.

Armenia's Shift in Alliances

Historically, Russia and Armenia have been strategic partners, but Armenia's recent policy changes signal a significant shift. This development is a considerable blow to Putin. Here are three major moves by Armenia that indicate its distancing from Russia:

1. Armenia Moves Towards Peace with Azerbaijan

After several conflicts with Azerbaijan, Armenia is now seeking friendship. A meeting is scheduled for the end of July in Dubai between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The two nations have been at odds over Nagorno-Karabakh since 1993, with Azerbaijan regaining control in 2023 after the war in 2020. The separate government of Artsakh will officially dissolve on January 1, 2024, as Armenia prepares for a peace agreement.

2. Proposed Ban on Russian Media

Recently, Armenia's parliament proposed a ban on Russian state media channels, which have been known to broadcast pro-Kremlin narratives. If implemented, this ban would weaken Russia's information grip in Armenia, coming from a nation that was once one of Putin's closest allies.

3. Strengthening Ties with China

Armenia is now viewing China as an alternative to Russia. Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan stated that their 'Crossroads of Peace' initiative aligns with China's Belt and Road Initiative. Armenia seeks an unrestricted partnership with China, marking a significant shift as it has been the only country in the South Caucasus—alongside Georgia and Azerbaijan—that had not established a strategic partnership with China until now.

A Warning Sign for Putin

Russia has historically relied on allies like Armenia, especially when facing Western pressures. However, with both Azerbaijan and Armenia distancing themselves from Russia, it is evident that the geopolitical landscape in the South Caucasus is shifting dramatically. Armenia's recent actions not only pose a significant challenge to Russia's foreign policy but also indicate that Putin's grip is gradually loosening.