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Ukraine’s military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said a Russian military aggression scenario similar to the one used against Ukraine is possible in Armenia, citing Moscow’s capabilities and growing tensions between the two countries, UATV English reports.
Speaking at the international Architecture of Security Forum, Budanov was asked whether Russia could attempt to pressure or attack Armenia using methods comparable to those employed against Ukraine.
“In my personal opinion, yes, it is absolutely realistic,” Budanov said. “Geography allows it, and there is no point in comparing Armenia’s capabilities with those of the Russian Federation.”
According to him, warning signs of deteriorating relations between Russia and Armenia began emerging around two years ago, as Yerevan increasingly sought to reduce its dependence on Moscow and deepen ties with Western partners.
His comments come amid growing friction between the two countries. On May 30, Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced that Ambassador Sergey Kopyrkin had been recalled to Moscow for consultations after Armenian authorities took additional steps toward closer cooperation with the European Union.
Relations between Moscow and Yerevan have worsened since Armenia accused Russia-led security structures of failing to protect the country during clashes with neighboring Azerbaijan and subsequently moved to strengthen cooperation with Western partners.
Budanov’s remarks reflect growing concerns in parts of Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus that the Kremlin may seek to maintain influence over former Soviet states through political, economic, or military pressure as its regional dominance faces increasing challenges.
