Armenian ex-security chief slams strategic partnership deal with US, calling it hasty

Former Director of Armenia's National Security Service, Arthur Vanetsyan, has voiced strong criticism over Armenia's recent signing of a strategic partnership agreement with the United States, calling the move hasty and potentially damaging for the country.

Vanetsyan, who also leads the Homeland party, stated on social media that decisions made by the Armenian government should prioritize the nation's interests, but he believes this agreement is driven by external pressures rather than strategic foresight, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.

He further speculated that, following the signing, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan would soon announce Armenia's exit from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a move that has been a topic of increasing debate.

He pointed out that Russia has already made it clear that Armenia cannot simultaneously remain a member of the Eurasian Economic Union while pursuing membership in the European Union, a stance that underscores the complexity of Armenia’s foreign policy decisions.

"Obviously, Nikol Pashinyan's foreign policy continues to follow an adventurous logic, threatening to bring new misfortune to our country," Vanetsyan wrote.

The agreement, signed during the final days of the Biden administration, covers a broad range of cooperation between Armenia and the U.S. in areas such as the economy, energy, defence, security, and democratic development. Key components include strengthening border security through a new joint commission, with a customs and border control group set to arrive in Armenia soon.

Additionally, Armenia will join the global coalition against ISIS and is preparing to engage in peaceful nuclear energy agreements with the U.S.

The agreement’s long-term prospects are uncertain, particularly with the possibility of a shift in U.S. policy under a potential Trump administration.

Notably, on January 14, 2025, Armenia and the United States signed the Charter on Strategic Partnership, in a ceremony broadcast by Armenia’s Public Television. The agreement that aims to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in economy, defence, security, and democracy was signed by Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. 

By Khagan Isayev