‘A bridge, not an obstacle’: is Armenia a new crossroads between east and west?
As former Soviet Republic goes to the polls, it finds itself in a strategic tug of war between Russia, the US, Turkey, Europe and Azerbaijan
TL;DR
- Armenia aims to become a strategic crossroads in Eurasia, linking East and West through new trade routes.
- Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's election platform emphasizes peace with Azerbaijan and a pivot towards the EU, termed 'Real Armenia'.
- The country is influenced by competing interests from Russia, the US, Turkey, Europe, and Azerbaijan.
- A potential peace deal with Azerbaijan could open borders and revitalize Armenia's economy, but faces internal opposition.
- The election campaign is contentious, with Pashinyan facing pro-Russian nationalist parties and accusations of authoritarian tendencies.
- Armenia's constitutional changes are required to finalize a peace agreement with Azerbaijan, including removing references to unification with Nagorno-Karabakh.
- Russia is subtly signaling disapproval of Armenia's pro-European stance, potentially impacting energy supplies.
- The outcome of the election will shape Armenia's future identity and its geopolitical alignment.