Armenia under fire for hosting Zelenskiy amid Russia’s growing tensions

Russia has sharply criticized Armenia for allowing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to speak in Yerevan last week. During his visit, Zelenskiy warned that Russian leaders might face drone threats over Red Square during Moscow’s Victory Day parade on May 9—a claim Moscow dismissed as reckless. While the parade went on as scheduled, it skipped the usual military displays, possibly due to security concerns.The Kremlin reacted strongly, summoning Armenia’s ambassador to protest what it called “terrorist threats. ” A spokesman stressed that Armenia should avoid taking sides against Russia, calling such actions “unacceptable” for their alliance. Russia also accused Armenia of drifting closer to the European Union after hosting a summit with over 40 European leaders, including Zelenskiy. Tensions between Russia and Armenia have risen since Azerbaijan reclaimed Nagorno-Karabakh last year despite Russian peacekeepers being stationed there. Some analysts suggest Armenia may be reassessing its ties with Russia after years of relying on Moscow for military support. Meanwhile, Russia’s warnings highlight its frustration with what it sees as Armenia’s shifting alliances.