Armenia signs strategic partnership deal with US as election approaches

Armenia has signed a strategic partnership agreement with the United States, deepening bilateral ties. The agreement, signed in Yerevan, includes cooperation on critical minerals and a transit corridor. This development occurs as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan faces upcoming parliamentary elections in June, with challenges from pro-Russia parties. Pashinyan has been increasingly seeking closer ties with the US and Europe, a shift that has strained relations with Russia, Armenia's historical security and economic partner. This pivot towards the West intensified after the 2023 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, during which Russia did not intervene militarily.

Armenia is positioning itself as a strategic crossroads for Eurasia, a vision championed by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan ahead of the June 7 national elections. This ambition is fueled by the potential for peace with Azerbaijan, which could end Armenia's isolation and integrate it into the "middle corridor" trade route connecting China and Europe. Pashinyan's "Real Armenia" doctrine advocates for a pivot away from Russia towards the EU and a focus on future prosperity over historical grievances. However, this vision faces challenges, including ongoing tensions with Azerbaijan, internal political divisions, and pro-Russian nationalist opposition. The election will determine whether voters support Pashinyan's forward-looking approach or a more traditional, Russia-aligned path.