Russia claims Armenia election held under opposition pressure, Western interference

Russia accused the West of interfering in Armenia’s parliamentary election, which was held over the weekend, and claimed that the opposition faced “unprecedented pressure.” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement: “On June 7, parliamentary elections were held in Armenia amid unprecedented pressure on the opposition and interference from the West, primarily the EU.” She argued that preliminary results show a significant decline in support for the ruling Civil Contract party and that there is a “clear demand” in Armenian society for closer ties with Russia and continued participation in Eurasian integration structures.

Allegations of repression

Zakharova further alleged that the election campaign and voting process took place amid “harsh repression” by Armenian authorities. She accused the country’s leadership of “flagrant violation of democratic principles and procedures for holding free elections” and of persecuting those advocating for bolstering Armenia’s “vital union with Russia.” She expressed hope that Armenian authorities would be guided by national interests. Moscow said it would formulate its future course with Armenia based on “the actual steps taken by the Armenian leadership.”