Tension increased between Russia and Armenia, India’s concern increased due to Putin’s ‘Ukraine’ threat

New Delhi: The rift in relations between India’s two close friends Russia and Armenia is increasing. President Vladimir Putin has intensified pressure on Armenia so that it does not get closer to the West. Both countries have been strong allies for decades. But after not supporting Russia in the war with Azerbaijan, Armenia has turned towards America and Europe.

Armenia is buying arms from India, Iran and China   

Armenia, which till now had been purchasing arms from Russia, is now purchasing arms on a large scale from India, Iran and China. Putin wants Armenia to immediately hold a referendum on leaving the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union and joining the European Union. Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashanyan has rejected this demand outright.

Putin had called Pashanyan to wish him on his birthday. In the same call, Pashinyan rejected the demand for a referendum. Armenia’s PM called Russia’s demand unfair. This statement came at a time when Russia is putting a lot of pressure on Armenia.

Demand for referendum raised in EAEU summit   

The tension began with the EAEU summit held in Kazakhstan on May 29. There Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan issued a joint statement. He asked Armenia to hold a referendum on joining the European Union. Putin made it clear that membership of both EU and EAEU simultaneously is not possible.

Putin also warned Armenia in gestures about a situation like Ukraine. He reminded that Ukraine wanted membership of the European Union and that is why the situation of war was created. In response, Pashinyan said on social media that his government would continue working with the EAEU until it was stopped. He acknowledged that relations with Russia are in a phase of transition.

Russia recalls ambassador, ban on imports   

Analysts say that the real reason behind Putin’s congratulatory call was the European Union issue. Russia does not want Armenia to get closer to Europe. Especially when there are parliamentary elections in Armenia on June 7. Russia has recalled its ambassador from Yerevan for consultations. Also, the import of fish and seafood from Armenia has been banned. This has dealt a blow to Armenia’s economy. The European Union alleges that Russia wants to influence the elections.

Ngerno Karabakh became the root of dispute   

Armenia was once a colony of Russia. Putin wants Russia to maintain its hold there. Azerbaijan annexed Nagorno Karabakh in 2023. Armenia asked Russia for help, but Moscow remained embroiled in the Ukraine War. After this Armenia purchased arms from India, Iran and China. Now he is also improving relations with Ukraine.

Why did India’s tension increase?   

It is noteworthy that India’s problems may increase due to the conflict between Russia and Armenia. India takes 60 percent of its weapons from Russia. On the other hand, India sells maximum arms to Armenia. Till now Armenia has purchased arms worth about $2 billion from India.

These include Pinaka rocket system, artillery, anti-tank rockets and Akash air defense system. Armenia is also purchasing drones from India. Many of India’s weapons are based on Russian technology. In such a situation, Russia’s displeasure may affect India’s defense deals.