The present state of Armenian-Russian relations is marked by intense emotions, and it is crucial to differentiate between positive and negative aspects and not succumb to these emotions. Russian Ambassador to Armenia Sergey Kopyrkin made such a statement during an interview on Public Television of Armenia, addressing the current situation concerning Sputnik Armenia radio and other issues on bilateral ties.

On December 20, the Commission on Television and Radio of Armenia decided to suspend the broadcasting of Sputnik Armenia radio for 30 days. Additionally, the rebroadcasting license of Tospa radio company was revoked for one month, accompanied by a fine of 500 thousand drams. The decision was prompted by the alleged derogatory remarks made during the November 17 broadcast of the “Friday with Tigran Keosayan” program, which was deemed to have insulted the honor and dignity of Armenia and its people.

Ambassador Kopyrkin underscored the importance of distinguishing between emotional outbursts and personal assessments, acknowledging that individuals may express opinions that do not contribute to the recovery of Armenian-Russian bilateral relations. He urged a measured perspective, suggesting that too much significance should not be attributed to such statements, especially considering the historically close ties between the Russian and Armenian peoples.

Responding to remarks regarding the establishment of a joint observation post between Russia and NATO member Turkey in Nagorno-Karabakh after the 44-day war in 2020, Ambassador Sergey Kopyrkin clarified that Russia did not bring NATO to the region.

“We know what relations there are between Turkey and Azerbaijan, and Turkey’s presence in the joint monitoring center probably reflects that reality. But it is not exclusively Russia’s reflection on NATO. When we [i.e., Russia] talk about NATO, we are worried that what we call the 'collective West' has declared Russia their strategic opponent—and even enemy—at this moment. Certainly, the trends in relations with the West are observed in Russia with double caution. Naturally, we cannot oppose it in any way, we do not force a confrontation, and we view politics [as] ‘either with us or against us.’ In this situation, we must take into account that the objectives of the West are arranged in such a way that a struggle be waged against Russia itself on all fronts, be it regionally or internationally. From this point of view, Russia's concern is understandable and justified,” said the Russian ambassador to Armenia.

Sergey Kopyrkin also addressed the concerns about Russia’s response to Azerbaijan's possible attack on the territory of Armenia. He emphasized that Russia took steps at the highest level to prevent further tension and maintain control over the situation. Kopyrkin addressed the observation that Russia, unlike Iran and the US, did not publicly emphasize Armenia’s territorial integrity as a “red line” and did not criticize Azerbaijan. He explained that public statements should not be taken out of context and highlighted the presence of Russian peacekeepers in the region. 

Referring to the prevalence of anti-Russian sentiments in Armenia, the Russian Ambassador stated that, during his 5.5 years in Armenia, he has not encountered anti-Russian sentiments in the country. Kopyrkin emphasized the warm relations formed with many Armenians and rejected the notion that the Armenian people harbor anti-Russian sentiments.

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