Wed May 21 15:46:32 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Russia Blames Ukraine War for Arms Shortage to Armenia, Warns Against Western Lean**
YEREVAN – Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has attributed delays in arms deliveries to Armenia to the ongoing war in Ukraine, raising concerns that the longstanding ally may now seek military support from the West.
Speaking in Yerevan, Lavrov acknowledged that some weapons contracts with Armenia have been impacted by the war, forcing Russia to prioritize its own military needs. He emphasized the pressure Russia is under, stating, “We are currently in a situation where… we are forced to fight all of Europe.”
Armenia has historically relied on Russian weaponry in its conflict with Azerbaijan. However, with Russia struggling to fulfill its obligations, Armenia has reportedly turned to countries like France and India for military supplies.
While Lavrov stated Russia would not explicitly oppose these new ties, he expressed unease about Armenia’s strategic direction, particularly its growing relationship with France. “When an ally turns to a country like France, which leads the hostile camp… it does raise questions,” he said.
Armenia’s shift toward the West comes amidst heightened tensions with Azerbaijan, including Azerbaijan’s recent military operation to retake Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia’s subsequent accusations that Russian peacekeepers failed to protect the fleeing ethnic Armenian population. Yerevan has also suspended its participation in the Collective Security Treaty Organisation, signaling a growing distance from Moscow.
First Piper 