On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine, which unfolds within transformations in the world order. The post-Cold War order based itself on absolute US hegemony extending to cover former Soviet republics in Europe. President Vladimir Putin believes that Moscow should be one of the main pillars of the emerging multipolar world order.
Where does Armenia stand in all this turmoil? The 2020 Artsakh war has resulted in a significant increase in Russian influence over Armenia. Currently, Russia is the sole guarantor of the security of Armenians in Nagorno Karabakh, but also it protects parts of Armenia. As such, Yerevan faces multiple security challenges. It should prevent the exodus of Armenians from Nagorno Karabakh and prevent Azerbaijani and Turkish large-scale economic penetration in Armenia.
Despite being firmly anchored in the Russian sphere of influence, Armenia developed modest cooperation with the West. Armenian national interests require cooperation with the West to receive assistance and funding. Armenia will also suffer economically due to the West’s economic war against Russia. Armenia cannot avoid the consequences of the Russia – Ukraine war entirely. However, while not irritating Russia, Yerevan should avoid complete rupture of its relations with the West.
By Benyamin Poghosyan, special to the Mirror-Spectator:
https://mirrorspectator.com/2022/03/01/war-in-ukraine-implications-for-armenia/
