Armenian Speaker Calls for Russian Border Guards Withdrawal
On February 27, Alen Simonyan, the Speaker of the Armenian National Assembly, voiced his opinion, suggesting that it would be appropriate for Russian border guards to depart from Zvartnots airport. Simonyan clarified that his opinion was not based on any ongoing discussions within the power ministries in which he is not directly involved.
Simonyan expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of Russian border guards in protecting Armenia's borders, emphasizing that Armenia should be responsible for its border security. He cited instances where he believed Russian peacekeepers failed to safeguard Armenian interests, referring to events in Nagorno-Karabakh where Armenians were displaced and peacekeepers subsequently faced casualties.
Addressing the presence of Russian soldiers in Nerkin Hand, where recent clashes occurred between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces, Simonyan admitted uncertainty about the legal basis for their presence. He suggested that this matter should be deliberated and resolved, particularly if Armenian soldiers are also stationed in the area.
Simonyan acknowledged that during periods of heightened tension, certain regions may be designated as the responsibility of Russian forces. However, he stressed the importance of clarifying the legal framework governing their presence in such areas.