Russia Accuses West of Interference in Armenia's Elections

(MENAFN) Russia leveled sharp accusations Monday, claiming that Armenia's weekend parliamentary elections were marred by foreign meddling and relentless pressure on opposition forces — as Moscow signaled it would recalibrate its relationship with Yerevan based on the new government's actions.

"On June 7, parliamentary elections were held in Armenia amid unprecedented pressure on the opposition and interference from the West, primarily the EU," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement.

Zakharova pointed to preliminary results showing a notable erosion of support for Armenia's ruling Civil Contract party, arguing the figures reflect a "clear demand" within Armenian society for deeper ties with Russia and continued engagement with Eurasian integration structures.

The Russian spokeswoman went further, characterizing the entire electoral process as having unfolded under what she described as "harsh repression" by Armenian authorities. She accused the country's leadership of a "flagrant violation of democratic principles and procedures for holding free elections" and alleged systematic persecution of those who advocate for strengthening Armenia's "vital union with Russia."

Offering a rare diplomatic overture amid the sharp rhetoric, Zakharova added: "We hope that the Armenian authorities will be guided by approaches based on national interests."

On the question of where Russian-Armenian relations go from here, Moscow made clear it would be watching closely. "We intend to formulate our course taking into account the actual steps taken by the Armenian leadership," she said.

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