Moscow Slams Bolton's Remarks Made During Yerevan Visit as Meddling in Armenia's Affairs
The Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday decried the remarks made by US National Security Adviser John Bolton during his recent visit to Yerevan as an interference in Armenia's internal affairs.
In an interview with Radio Free Europe on Thursday, Bolton suggested, when asked about Armenian-Russian ties, that Yerevan should not be "constrained by historical patterns" and focus more on ties with the United States and other countries "that share those same values." During his visit, he also suggested that Armenia should reconsider the situation when bulk of its weapons purchases came from Russia, and said that US arms was a better alternative.
The Russian ministry drew parallels between Bolton's statement and earlier remarks by US Ambassador in Yerevan Richard Mills. Addressing the American Chamber of Commerce on October 9, Mills declared the US support for "initiatives in Armenia following the political transition" and pledged $26 million to the so-called support of the civil society and media in the coming year.
"It seemed that there could be no greater arrogance, indistinguishable from direct interference in internal affairs. Yet, it turned out that it could. Bolton, who recently visited Yerevan, publicly demanded that Armenia abandoned the 'historical patterns' in its international relations (it was not hidden that he hinted at the traditional friendship with Russia). He also said that he expected from [acting Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol] Pashinyan initiative steps on the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement after the parliamentary elections in the country. Naturally, he did not forget to advertise the US weapons, which Armenia should acquire instead of the Russian ones," the statement reads.
The ministry went on to note that during the interview with Radio Free Europe, Bolton, in contrast, stressed that it was fundamental for Armenia to be a fully sovereign state, and urged the US security adviser "to ponder the meaning of own words."
Bolton visited Armenia last week, holding talks with Pashinyan, among others.