Russia intends to resolve issues arising in relations with Armenia on the basis of mutual respect, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said, according to RIA Novosti.

“We are focused on economic and humanitarian development, as well as resolving issues related to security challenges in this region on the basis of mutual respect,” Zakharova told reporters.

Earlier, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev stated that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had “taken the path of breaking relations” with Russia. Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan later said that Armenia is not seeking to sever ties with Russia.

Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu also said that Armenia’s leadership is seeking protection directly from the “source of threats.”