Russia Proposes Restricting Armenia's CSTO Rights Over Unpaid Dues
Russia has proposed suspending Armenia's voting and nomination rights within the CSTO due to unpaid contributions as tensions over Armenia's alliance ties grow.
The Federal Government of Russia has proposed restricting Armenia's membership rights within the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) after Armenia failed to meet financial obligations for two years. CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov confirmed on November 4 that the initiative could suspend Armenia's voting privileges and its ability to nominate candidates for alliance positions, though he clarified the proposal does not seek Armenia's expulsion.
Armenia froze its participation in the alliance in February 2024, citing the organization's failure to respond to military threats from Azerbaijan. Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has since stated there is no prospect of resuming participation, although Armenia has not formally withdrawn. The Collective Security Council is expected to discuss the restrictions on November 10.
Following the proposal, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that Armenia is not being forced to remain in the CSTO and may withdraw after fulfilling existing obligations. Zakharova accused Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of confusing the public regarding the choice between the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union. She further asserted that Western countries are unable to ensure stability in the South Caucasus and are merely attempting to interfere in the region.
