The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) acknowledged statements made by James Heappey, the Deputy Defense Minister and Minister for the Armed Forces of the United Kingdom, regarding the UK’s willingness to assist Armenia in the event of “threats from Russia” as reported by the Russian news agency RIA Novosti.

“We are no longer surprised by the fact that London has stopped hiding the anti-Russian nature of all its steps in the post-Soviet territory, including in the South Caucasus. But Heappey’s confessions directly confirm as well that the West strives to make Armenia an instrument of its line in the region, directed against Moscow,” the Russian MFA outlined. 

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also highlighted that such statements are a reason for reflection among responsible politicians in Armenia.

Earlier, James Heappey, the Minister for Armed Forces of the United Kingdom, addressed inquiries from British MPs regarding potential advantages for the UK defense industry if Armenia withdraws from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Heappey affirmed that the UK acknowledges Armenia’s decision to freeze its CSTO membership as an exercise of its sovereign right. He emphasized the UK's commitment to collaborating with Euro-Atlantic allies to assist Armenia in confronting any potential retaliation threats from Russia.

Heappey highlighted that any potential benefits should align with the established limitations outlined in the OSCE arms embargo agreement, to which the UK is a signatory. Simultaneously, he emphasized that London remains committed to collaborating closely with Armenia “to explore avenues for enhancing cooperation.”

Referencing statements made by the British Armed Forces Minister, Yerevan-based political analyst, and the head of Democratic Alternative Party Suren Surenyants underscored the perceived absence of dedication from Western nations in safeguarding Armenia against potential threats from Azerbaijan. 

“Western partners are extremely sincere. They are not going to support us in the face of threats from Azerbaijan, but they are ‘defending’ us against the Russians, showing us the "door of hope," Ankara, which is supposed to provide us guarantees to “throw off the Russian yoke. We are blatantly offered to become another Ukraine. And in this case, the West is not interested in the outcome of this process, but in the process itself, which could risk the loss of Armenian statehood,” the expert wrote in a social media post.