August 20, 2026
The National Interest - How Russia Is Recalibrating Its Armenia Strategy
Russian policy toward Armenia is entering a new phase in which Moscow now appears increasingly inclined to rely on calibrated economic and political pressure rather than blunt punitive measures. The shift reflects the Kremlin’s recognition that while Yerevan under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan continues to deepen its engagement with Western partners, excessive coercion could accelerate Armenia’s strategic drift away from Russia rather than reverse it.
The latest attempt to stabilize bilateral relations came in early July, when the Armenian leader traveled to Russia for talks with his Russian counterpart, Mikhail Mishustin. The Russian side emphasized Russia’s desire to restore normal cooperation, expressing confidence that bilateral ties could gradually return to a more constructive trajectory under Armenia’s current government.
Beyond diplomacy, Russia is reviewing a broader range of policy instruments designed to preserve its influence without triggering a complete geopolitical break. Russia remains Armenia’s principal export destination. In 2025, Armenian exports to Russia reached approximately $3 billion, representing more than one-third of the country’s total exports. This dependence gives the Kremlin significant influence over many sectors of the Armenian economy.
Read the full article on The National Interest.
Emil Avdaliani is a Research Fellow at the Turan Research Center.