On January 24, the Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized that Russian-Armenian relations are facing significant challenges due to Western actions pressuring Yerevan and undermining its ties with Moscow.

In response to media questions posed to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov during a press conference, the ministry stated:
"Russian-Armenian relations are going through a difficult period. This is largely a consequence of Western actions, which have, over the past year, increased pressure on Armenia, inciting it to break traditional ties with Russia and imposing values alien to the Armenian people."

The ministry highlighted that Armenia had responded favorably to unsubstantiated promises from the US and the EU to replace Russia as a partner. It emphasized that Armenia’s membership in the CSTO remains the cornerstone of its security, while its participation in the EAEU guarantees economic stability.

The Russian Foreign Ministry also criticized Washington and Brussels for prioritizing their own interests, claiming that their approach is purely utilitarian. The ministry urged Armenia to consider the outcomes of similar scenarios in Georgia and reiterated that Russian-Armenian brotherly relations are based on mutual respect and strategic partnership.

The ministry further revealed that bilateral trade between Russia and Armenia reached record levels in 2024, with Russian businesses leading in tax contributions and employment within Armenia. It also underscored that Armenia’s attempts to balance ties with the West have not provided comparable economic benefits.