An exclusive interview with political analyst and vice-chairman of the “For the Republic” party, Ruben Meghrabyan, focused on Armenia’s future, its foreign policy orientation, relations with Azerbaijan, Russia, and the European Union, as well as the upcoming elections and the country’s internal political situation.

According to Meghrabyan, Armenia is going through a turning point in its history and is now effectively determining its long-term geopolitical and civilizational direction. He stressed that it is crucial for the country to transition from the post-Soviet model toward a European political and economic system.

Special attention during the interview was given to the role of the South Caucasus. The analyst noted that the region is gradually ceasing to be a peripheral area and is becoming an important transit and geopolitical hub between Europe and Central Asia. He described the development of land communications and transport corridors as a key objective, emphasizing that Armenia and Azerbaijan must move from confrontation toward pragmatic cooperation.

Speaking about the prospects for Armenian-Azerbaijani relations, Meghrabyan stated that the main goal remains the signing of a peace treaty between the two countries. In his view, future relations between Yerevan and Baku should be built not necessarily on friendship, but on stable and manageable coexistence — similar to the relationship between Greece and Turkey. He also stressed the importance of opening communications, establishing embassies, maintaining regular diplomatic contacts, and developing economic cooperation. According to him, peace is the foundation of regional security and economic development.

A separate part of the interview focused on Armenia’s European course. Meghrabyan noted that Yerevan is actively moving closer to Europe and the European Union. He recalled that the European Political Community summit and the first Armenia–EU summit were held in the Armenian capital. In his opinion, Armenia is historically and culturally a European country, and the strategic goal of the state should be full membership in the European Union.

At the same time, the analyst sharply criticized Russia’s policy toward Armenia. He described Moscow as the main source of pressure and threats to the country, claiming that Russia seeks to maintain control over Armenia by using hybrid methods of influence and supporting pro-Russian forces within the republic. In this regard, Meghrabyan advocated Armenia’s withdrawal from the CSTO, the Eurasian Economic Union, and the CIS, as well as the removal of the Russian military base and an end to Russia’s military presence in the country.

Commenting on the domestic political situation, Meghrabyan described the upcoming elections as a geopolitical choice between Europe and Russia, as well as between sovereignty and external influence. In his assessment, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan remains the frontrunner in the political race. At the same time, he emphasized the need for the emergence of a new pro-European opposition, while claiming that part of the current opposition maintains ties with Russia and former Armenian elites.

#ARMENIA

#INTERVIEW

17.05.2026 02:08