Armenian authorities are heard not only inside the country but also abroad, and a country like Russia reacts immediately, former President Robert Kocharyan, leader of the Hayastan alliance, said during a campaign event in Aparan while commenting on warnings coming from Moscow.

“This man [Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan] does not understand that authorities are listened to abroad as well. And when you speak, a country like Russia reacts immediately. Yesterday’s reaction was simply a very bad sign. I know that country very well and I read between the lines what they are saying. They are saying: ‘Dear people, you have a problem with this government.’ Fine, you entered an election campaign, but can’t you control your tongue and avoid provoking major powers?” Kocharyan said, according to RFE/RL.

He also said he could not recall such a “dirty” election campaign, despite having seen much in Armenian political life.

“We have an irresponsible government. They seem to think that during the campaign, they are no longer the government. It does not matter whether you are on vacation or not, whether you are campaigning or not — authorities must maintain certain standards. But this government is giving the campaign the dirtiest possible character,” Kocharyan stressed.

A special working group on Armenia was convened at Russia’s Security Council, where Secretary Sergei Shoigu said that recent actions by Armenia’s leadership were “incompatible with the spirit of allied relations with Russia.” Among them, he highlighted Armenia’s European aspirations.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin also stated that “Armenia cannot be simultaneously in both the Eurasian Economic Union and the European Union — as they say, Armenia will not succeed in dancing at two weddings at the same time.”

Alongside Armenia’s election campaign, Russia has also intensified warnings that Yerevan could face serious economic consequences if it continues pursuing a European path.