Russia Says Armenia Has Not Requested Gyumri Base Withdrawal

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin stated that Armenia has not requested the withdrawal of the Russian military base in Gyumri. Galuzin maintained that the base remains an important element of the security architecture for Armenia and the South Caucasus.

These comments follow a meeting in Bishkek between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Putin indicated that Russia is prepared to maintain its presence if desired by the Armenian people, but noted that the contingent could withdraw as early as tomorrow if Yerevan no longer sees a need for it.

Pashinyan confirmed that the status of the base was not discussed during the meeting with Putin. However, the Armenian Prime Minister noted that the presence of the 102nd Military Base is not a vital necessity.