Controversy Arises Over French Arms Sales to Armenia Amid Criticisms from Baku and Moscow
Armenia has indicated its intention to withdraw from a Russian-led security bloc.
The announcement comes after France pledged to sell advanced artillery systems to Armenia, sparking backlash from both Azerbaijan and Moscow.
Azerbaijan’s advisor to President Ilham Aliyev criticized France’s policy, warning that the arms sale to Armenia could negatively impact efforts to normalize relations between the two countries.
Moscow, on the other hand, accused France of trying to provoke conflict in a region traditionally seen as Russia’s sphere of influence.
Armenia and Azerbaijan, who have a history of conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, have been working with Russian mediation to improve their relations since Azerbaijan carried out a military offensive in September 2023.
French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu recently announced plans to sell Caesar artillery systems to Armenia, further aggravating tensions in the region.
In response, Baku condemned the arms sale, claiming it poses a threat to Azerbaijan’s security.
Armenia defended its right to maintain a capable armed forces, with France being a key supporter in Europe, having previously supplied radar systems and anti-aircraft missiles.
Despite its deepening ties with France, Armenia is also a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), led by Russia.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has expressed a desire to distance the country from its alliance with Moscow, citing the CSTO’s failure to prevent Azerbaijan’s offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh.
Recent statements from Pashinyan indicate that Armenia plans to leave the CSTO, a move that will require clarification from the alliance.
Overall, the situation highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the South Caucasus region.
