Yerevan is shifting its orientation toward the West, often at the expense of its own national interests, Russian Deputy Director of the Fourth CIS Department at the Foreign Ministry Dmitry Masyuk has stated. As an example, he cited Armenia’s decision to disengage from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).

“We feel the destructive influence of pro-Western forces in Armenia. Regrettably, the South Caucasus republic is not resisting these changes and continues on a Western path—often to the detriment of its national interests. A clear example is Yerevan's refusal to cooperate with the CSTO,” Masyuk said at the opening of the Gorchakov Foundation’s “Caucasian Dialogue” educational program, as reported by TASS.

According to Masyuk, the CSTO holds significant potential in ensuring stability in the South Caucasus.

He also emphasized that Moscow values its friendly relations with Armenia, viewing them as crucial for maintaining peace and order within the country.

“We are interested in preserving friendly ties with [Armenia] to help maintain legality and tranquility in the country,” he stated.

Earlier, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced that Yerevan had frozen its participation in the CSTO, claiming the alliance had posed a threat to Armenia’s sovereignty. In December last year, he also said that relations between Armenia and the CSTO had passed the point of no return.