As Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan undertakes his visit to Moscow, Russian political scientist Oleg Kuznetsov sheds light on the underlying dynamics and motivations behind the diplomatic engagement.
In an exclusive interview with Ednews, Kuznetsov remarked, "What is Armenia compared to Russia? Apart from the existing ones, what real difficulties can it create with the Kremlin? Of course, nothing."
Kuznetsov criticized Pashinyan's delayed visit to Moscow, emphasizing its diminished significance against the backdrop of President Putin's recent swearing-in ceremony and expected appointments of Russian officials. He dismissed notions of tension between Russia and Armenia, highlighting the vast disparity in status and influence between the two nations.
According to Kuznetsov, Pashinyan's visit serves a different purpose altogether: "It is time to get used to the idea that Presidents Putin and Aliyev have long agreed on who will control the South Caucasus region and by what means they will do it. Pashinyan is aware of this and understands that he will still have to answer to Baku for all demarches directed towards the Kremlin."
The political scientist suggested that Pashinyan's primary objective in visiting Moscow is to preempt potential humiliation by Azerbaijan, particularly in light of recent border delimitation disputes. Kuznetsov contends that the visit is primarily aimed at safeguarding Pashinyan's standing among his own people.
As Pashinyan navigates the complexities of regional geopolitics, Kuznetsov's analysis provides valuable insights into the underlying motivations and strategic considerations shaping Armenia's diplomatic engagements with Russia and its neighbors.