Armenia hails weapon deals, European border observers' activity as diplomatic triumph

President of the Armenian National Assembly Alen Simonyan has hailed Armenia’s recent weapon purchases from non-CSTO member states and European observers’ activity on the border as a significant diplomatic achievement.

Simonyan framed the decision as a major success for Armenia’s foreign policy, Caliber.Az reports via Armenian media.

“Isn’t it a success that, even though we are members of the CSTO, other countries still sell us weapons? Isn’t it a success that international civilian mission is stationed along our borders, which boosts Armenia’s security?” Simonyan asked journalists, emphasising the importance of Armenia's international relationships.

Simonyan further explained that the international aspect of Armenia's strategy is one of its most successful. 

“It’s unprecedented for a CSTO member state to receive weapons—or even a single bullet—from a country outside of this organisation. This is not just a supply—it’s a political message. It doesn’t matter what exactly is delivered; what matters is the act itself,” he said. 

In recent months, it has been reported that Armenia has purchased arms from countries like India and France. These transactions have garnered attention due to Armenia’s strategic pivot away from CSTO alliances, notably following strained relations with Russia and the organisation. Armenia has repeatedly accused Russia and the CSTO of failing to meet their security commitments. In September 2024, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called the CSTO a “security threat” to Armenia, stating that the country had passed the point of no return in its relationship with the organisation. 

In response, the Kremlin has reaffirmed that the CSTO’s purpose is to protect the sovereignty of its member states and does not pose any threat. Russian officials also pointed out that the suspension of Armenia's participation was primarily influenced by the actions of Western countries.

By Naila Huseynova