Armenia Parades Foreign Weaponry as Russia Tensions Escalate Before Election
Armenia’s Military Parade and Geopolitical Shifts
YEREVAN, May 28 (Reuters) - Armenia held a Soviet-style military parade on Thursday, showcasing its growing stocks of foreign-made equipment just over a week before a parliamentary election and at a time of rising tensions with traditional ally Russia.
Significance of the Parade
The parade was the first to feature heavy weaponry and be held on Yerevan's main square since 2016, according to Armenian media, and was denounced by government critics as pre-election political theatre.
Showcased Military Equipment
Air defence systems from India, artillery systems and armoured personnel carriers from France, drones made in Armenia, and rocket launchers from Russia were on show as crowds looked on.
Political and Economic Context
Armenia’s Western Alignment
Armenia, host to Russian military bases and a member of a Russian-led economic union, has deepened ties with the West under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who is running for a third term in the June 7 vote.
Russia’s Reaction and Warnings
That has angered Russia which has warned Yerevan it will suspend or terminate the supply of cheap oil, gas and rough diamonds if Armenia presses ahead with its bid to join the European Union.
Diversification of Military Suppliers
Armenia's main defence supplier has historically been Russia. But in recent years Yerevan has diversified its military procurement to include countries like India and France.
(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Lucy Papachristou/Andrew Osborn; Editing by Toby Chopra)
