Media: Armenia’s Civil Contract program signals shift in Russia policy

Armenian media report that the newly unveiled election program of the ruling Civil Contract party signals a shift in the country’s approach to relations with Russia, diverging from recent statements by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

According to Caliber.Az, the discrepancy has been highlighted through comparisons between the party’s 2021 and 2026 policy documents ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Speaking at a meeting with residents of Shnogh village in Armenia’s Lori region, Pashinyan said his government “has never acted and will not act against Russia’s interests.” However, the party’s updated program outlines a revised framework for security policy and allied relations with Moscow.

The 2021 program placed strong emphasis on Armenia’s strategic partnership with Russia, including the joint air defence system, the Joint Group of Forces, and the presence of the 102nd Russian military base. It also explicitly linked the security of the Syunik region to Russia’s military role, referencing the establishment of Russian base outposts in Goris and Sisian and the involvement of Russian border guards in protecting Armenia’s frontiers.

In contrast, the 2026 program adopts a different tone. It formally records that Armenia’s membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) is frozen and states that no steps will be taken to restore active participation. Relations with Russia are described as being “at the stage of constructive transformation,” with a focus on building “mutually beneficial constructive relations.”

At the same time, the Republican party, which has indicated it may enter a coalition with Civil Contract, has put forward a more hardline platform. Its program calls for Armenia to withdraw from the joint air defence system with Russia and exit the CSTO within one year, enabling the country to pursue alternative security partnerships.

“Conclude a new comprehensive cooperation agreement with the Russian Federation that corresponds to the current situation, cancelling agreements concluded after independence. Leave the CIS and the EAEU, ensuring a smooth economic transition until 2031,” the Republic party’s program states.

By Tamilla Hasanova