Armenia Breaks Ties with Russian-Led Security Alliance Amidst Rising Tensions

Armenia has announced its intention to withdraw from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a Russian-dominated security alliance, as tensions escalate between the two allies. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan cited the organization's failure to provide protection to Armenia and alleged that some members had sided with Azerbaijan during the recent conflict in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Armenia's relationship with Russia, its traditional ally, has been deteriorating following Azerbaijan's successful military campaign in September 2020, which ended decades of Armenian separatist control over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Armenia accused Russian peacekeepers deployed in the area of failing to prevent Azerbaijan's offensive, while Moscow rejected the accusations.

Prime Minister Pashinyan has denounced the CSTO's failure to protect Armenia and claimed that some members conspired with Azerbaijan against them. He announced Armenia's intention to withdraw from the alliance but did not specify when the withdrawal would take effect. Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan later attempted to soften the blow to Russia, stating that the withdrawal had not been officially announced.

Moscow has pursued a delicate balancing act, maintaining close ties with both Armenia and Azerbaijan while also having a warm relationship with Turkey, a significant economic partner amid Western sanctions. Pashinyan's efforts to strengthen Armenia's ties with the West have angered Russia, particularly the decision to join the International Criminal Court, which has indicted President Putin for alleged war crimes in Ukraine.

Pashinyan's announcement comes amidst widespread protests demanding his resignation over the handover of four border villages to Azerbaijan as part of a peace negotiation effort. Violent clashes erupted as protesters tried to breach police cordons, resulting in injuries and arrests.

The Union of Journalists condemned the disproportionate police response and demanded prosecution of those responsible. At least ten journalists were among the injured.

Russia has downplayed the differences with Armenia, focusing on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Pashinyan's decision to withdraw from the CSTO is seen as a significant departure from traditional Armenian foreign policy.

The CSTO includes Russia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. It was established in 2002 to promote regional security in former Soviet republics. Armenia has been a member since its inception.

Withdrawal from the CSTO could have significant implications for Armenia's security, as the alliance provides military assistance and coordination among members. It remains to be seen how Armenia will manage its security needs in the absence of Russian support.

Russia's balancing act between Armenia and Azerbaijan becomes increasingly difficult as the two countries' positions diverge. Armenia seeks closer ties with the West, while Azerbaijan has strong relations with Turkey, a key NATO member.

The situation in the South Caucasus region remains fluid, and the withdrawal of Armenia from the CSTO adds to the uncertainty. It is unclear how the move will affect regional security and the broader geopolitical landscape.