Russia's Waning Influence: Is a Longtime Ally Drifting Away?

Armenia's growing frustration with Russia's inability to defend it against aggression from neighboring Azerbaijan has led to a shift in its foreign policy, as it seeks to diversify its security partnerships. Recent actions, such as sending humanitarian aid to Ukraine and considering ratifying the International Criminal Court's Rome Statute, have strained relations with Russia. Armenia's disappointment in Russia's failure to uphold its security commitments, particularly during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, has raised questions about Russia's ability to retain its influence in former Soviet states. While Armenia is not seeking to sever ties with Russia entirely, it is diluting its influence and exploring new partnerships, potentially risking alienation from both Russia and the West.