Russia has dealt a major blow to both Türkiye and Azerbaijan regarding the Armenian elections. Pashinyan’s party failed to win a two-thirds majority, meaning normalization of Armenia’s relations with Azerbaijan and Türkiye is unlikely. Pashinyan’s party is considered anti-Russian, and Russia did everything in its power to prevent him from winning the election. According to news agency Reuters, Pashinyan’s party got 49 percent of the votes, while the Russia-backed party got 37 percent. Pashinyan is considered a US-backed leader.
**Low chances of improvement in relations with Türkiye and Azerbaijan**
Azerbaijan and Türkiye are neighboring countries of Armenia. Before 2023, there was an ongoing border dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Turkey sided with Azerbaijan, resulting in a crushing defeat for Armenia. Eventually, at the behest of the US, Armenia signed an agreement with Azerbaijan. Pashinyan’s party needed a two-thirds majority to implement the agreement and expand trade with Türkiye. However, the party received less than 50 percent of the votes in the election; In the last election it got 54 percent votes.
**The big question: Why is Armenia important?**
Armenia shares borders with countries like Türkiye, Iran and Azerbaijan. Its strategic location between Europe and Asia further increases its importance. Armenia was earlier a close ally of Russia, but changed its stance after 2023.
Russia has already lost its influence in countries like Syria in the Middle East. If Armenia completely moves out of its sphere of influence, tensions may increase for Iran, because the borders of Iran and Armenia are interconnected. Russia aims to strengthen its hold on Armenia while maintaining ties with NATO member Türkiye.
According to Russian news agency Interfax, opposition parties in this country with a population of 3 lakh have secured enough votes to enter the parliament. Although Pashinyan’s party will undoubtedly form the government, it will face immense pressure from the opposition.