Armenia Votes on Future Between Europe and Russia
A parliamentary election in Armenia could shape the country's future direction, as voters choose between deeper integration with the West and a return to closer ties with longtime ally Russia. The vote comes at a crucial moment for the South Caucasus nation of around three million people. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is seeking another term while promoting stronger cooperation with Europe, a policy that has increasingly strained relations with Moscow. Over the past several years, Armenia has gradually moved away from Russia's political orbit. Under Pashinyan's leadership, the government has launched steps toward European integration, strengthened relations with Western partners, and advanced peace negotiations with neighboring Azerbaijan through agreements supported by the United States. The Armenian leader has also worked to increase his country's engagement with European institutions. Earlier this year, Yerevan hosted a major gathering of European leaders and […]