Recent developments in the South Caucasus show that Russia is rapidly losing its influence in the region. After Karabakh, the future of Russian border guards stationed along Armenia’s borders with Turkey and Iran is now being debated. None of the regional actors want Moscow to remain in this area.
In this context, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is preparing to travel to Moscow in the coming days. Experts believe that the Kremlin will use this visit to increase pressure on Yerevan and try to keep Armenia within its orbit. However, the recent peace agreement signed at the White House between Azerbaijan and Armenia demonstrated that new realities have emerged in the region, leaving Moscow with minimal leverage over the process.
Speaking to ARB24 TV, political commentator Ahmad Shahidov said: “Russia no longer holds the same level of influence in the region. With Azerbaijan’s resolute policy, Turkey’s growing role, and Iran’s firm stance, Moscow is gradually losing its foothold in the South Caucasus. Pashinyan’s visit to Moscow is essentially a sign of pressure – the Kremlin does not want to lose Armenia, but the reality is that it can no longer restore its former position here.”
According to Shahidov, the opening of the Zangezur corridor will further weaken Russia’s role in the region and shape a new geopolitical balance.
