Kocharyan: Armenian Authorities Deliberately Worsening Relations with Russia
Yerevan, Armenia, May 26, 2026 – Robert Kocharyan, former President of Armenia and leader of the “Armenia” bloc, has accused the current Armenian authorities of actively working to deteriorate relations with Russia. Speaking at a campaign rally in Vayk yesterday, May 25, Kocharyan emphasized Russia’s critical role as both a security guarantor and Armenia’s most important economic partner.
Kocharyan highlighted that approximately 80% of the welfare of Armenian citizens is tied to the Russian Federation. “It is impossible to escape this fact, yet the authorities are consistently pushing towards worsening relations with Russia. I do not recall Russian officials making such harsh statements against Armenia since independence,” Kocharyan stated, noting that Moscow has moved from diplomatic language to direct hints, urging Armenia to “come to its senses.”
Foreign Policy and National Interests
According to Kocharyan, any state’s foreign policy should primarily serve its national interests, encompassing both security and economic concerns. He stressed the importance of evaluating all risks in the realm of security and prioritizing relations with states that are more crucial. When security risks are present, they should be neutralized by leveraging the capabilities of friendly nations.
From an economic security perspective, a country must assess the advantages of cooperation with various countries and unions, fostering those relationships. Kocharyan pointed out that for centuries, Iran, Turkey, and Russia have consistently competed in the region. He asserted that Russia is the only country capable of countering Turkey’s influence in the region. Instead of balancing between these powers and curbing Ankara’s influence through Moscow – as there is no other country for this purpose – the current authorities are escalating tensions in relations.
Economic Repercussions: Strawberry Exports Blocked
In confirmation of Kocharyan’s remarks, Garnik Danielyan, a member of the opposition “Armenia” faction in the National Assembly, reported on social media about the return of Armenian strawberries from Russia. He stated that Armenian truck drivers and entrepreneurs reported that strawberries destined for Russia were sent back from the Bagratashen checkpoint.
According to Danielyan, the phytosanitary service prohibited the export, citing the presence of an inadmissible substance. “It should be noted that until now, the same entrepreneurs had not faced such problems, and exported fruits and vegetables complied with all norms,” Danielyan wrote. He highlighted that this decision caught entrepreneurs by surprise and warned of significant losses if the produce spoils. The MP also mentioned that cherry exports are set to begin soon, and producers fear a similar decision could be made regarding their products.
Garnik Danielyan believes that these events are linked to the deterioration of Armenian-Russian relations. “We have repeatedly warned that in a situation where a significant portion of our agricultural products are sold in Russian and EAEU markets, statements and actions that harm relations are unacceptable,” he noted.
Danielyan also criticized the Minister of Economy, recalling statements about finding alternative sales markets. “For them, politics is a field of adventure. Meanwhile, our entrepreneurs and citizens suffer huge losses,” Garnik Danielyan declared.
