Armenia, Azerbaijan Pressured to Sign Peace Treaties Exclusively on Western Terms: Russian Defense Minister

Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov has claimed that the strategies adopted by NATO and the European Union (EU) are heightening tensions in the South Caucasus, specifically affecting Georgia and the relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Strategic Interests in the Caucasus

Speaking at a meeting of the Council of Defense Ministers of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in Almaty, Belousov emphasized that some NATO members are aiming to solidify their presence in the South Caucasus. He said that their goal is to gain access to the resources of the Caspian Sea and establish direct routes to Central Asia. 

Influence in Georgia

Belousov accused NATO and the EU of sponsoring protests in Georgia, pushing the country to adopt anti-Russian measures. He suggested that these actions are part of a broader strategy to exert influence in the region and counter Russian interests.

Mediation in Armenia and Azerbaijan

The Russian defense minister also criticized Western efforts to mediate between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He argued that mediation services are being imposed aggressively on both countries, with proposals to sign peace treaties exclusively on Western terms. 

Concerns Over Security

Belousov expressed particular concern over the plans by Washington and Brussels to involve Russia’s Armenian partners under the guise of enhancing security. He indicated that these actions are contributing to the tensions within the regions covered by the CSTO's collective security framework.