Armenia views relations with Russia as a tool for reorientation toward the EU: Zakharova

Armenia perceives its relations with Russia as a tool for financially securing its reorientation toward the European path, Maria Zakharova, official spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry, said in an interview with RIA Novosti.

“There is a persistent sense that relations with Moscow are perceived in Yerevan as a kind of ‘tactical’ instrument for financially securing the reorientation toward the European path,” Zakharova said.

According to her, Yerevan’s words about relations with Moscow diverge from the steps taken by its leadership, which is seeking EU membership. “We hear statements from Armenian officials about the importance of Moscow as a partner, about Yerevan’s intention to maintain and develop relations with Russia. But unfortunately, we do not see those words reflected in the actions and steps of the Armenian leadership, which has unequivocally declared its aspiration to join the EU,” she stated.