About 100 individuals gathered on Saturday in protest outside a Russian army base located in Gyumri, Armenia, demanding an end to the Russian military presence in the country. Armenia, a landlocked nation in the Caucasus that was formerly part of the Soviet Union, has historically depended on Russia for security against neighboring Azerbaijan. However, this reliance has come under scrutiny as relations between the two countries have soured, particularly following Azerbaijan’s military actions in Nagorno-Karabakh earlier this year, during which Russia notably refrained from intervening to support Armenia.
The protest was organized by individuals like Arman Babajanyan, who articulated the protesters’ sentiments by stating, “We demand the withdrawal of the Russian base from the territory of Armenia. The presence of this base does not ensure security, but creates an internal threat.” Demonstrators displayed placards with messages such as “Armenia without Russian boots” and “End the Russian occupation,” reflecting the growing discontent with Russia’s ongoing military presence.
Among the protesters was Anahit Tadevosyan, a 74-year-old resident, who declared, “Russia must leave Armenia,” linking her views on the Russian army’s activities in Ukraine to concerns for Armenia. “They have betrayed us, they must leave,” she asserted, expressing a belief that Russia’s actions have undermined trust.
In response to the protest, a significant police presence was deployed to maintain order and prevent any clashes between the anti-Russian demonstrators and a smaller group that showed support for the military base. The counter-protest was led by individuals like Manuk Sukiasyan of the Mother Armenia movement, who contended that the Russian 102nd Military Base, which has been stationed in Gyumri since 1995, plays a crucial role in ensuring Armenia’s independence and security.
While Russia has indicated intentions to reduce its military footprint in Armenia—removing some troops and border guards last year—core units remain stationed along Armenia’s border with Turkey and Iran. Armenia and Russia are both members of the Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a mutual defense alliance, though Armenia has effectively suspended its participation due to the deterioration of relations.
Adding to Armenia’s diplomatic maneuvers, the nation joined the International Criminal Court (ICC) last year, a move that carries significant implications, as it would compel Armenia to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin should he enter Armenian territory, in light of the ICC’s war crimes warrant against him. This further illustrates the shifting dynamics in the region and the growing call for an independent Armenian stance devoid of reliance on Russian support.
