Andrey Kolesnik, a member of the Russian State Duma's defense committee, believes that Armenia should not give up the Russian military base in Gyumri, as without that support the country would be "swallowed up" by certain regional forces, and in that regard the base plays an important role in ensuring security.
According to him, the base has been there for several decades, and that is no accident — it is able to offset some of the threats that exist for Armenia.
"Russia has always come to Armenia's aid, the relations between our peoples have traditionally been good," the MP declared, also noting that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan needs to make clear whom he considers an ally and not try to "sit on two chairs."
It should be recalled that shortly before this, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at a press conference in Bishkek that Moscow is ready to withdraw the military base from Armenia if Yerevan deems it necessary.
These statements are noteworthy precisely because of their contradictory nature. On one hand, Putin leaves open the possibility of the base's removal; on the other, the State Duma deputy is trying to preempt that step with rather harsh rhetoric.
In reality, this is a diplomatic game where each side is trying to secure an advantageous position. For Armenia, it is important to understand what options actually exist, since the issue of military presence carries not only security weight but also political and economic significance. Without a clear picture, it is difficult to make a decision that would affect long-term development.
