Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan claimed victory Monday in a general election seen as a test of Russia's influence in the South Caucasus country, as preliminary results showed his governing party in first with more than double the votes of the next contender. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Pashinyan was looking for a strong mandate for a new geopolitical course that includes distancing Armenia from Moscow and deepening cooperation with the West. "The European Union is our main partner in democratic reform implementation, and we will continue that path," Pashinyan said as he cast his vote on Sunday.
European election observers said the election was divisive but "well-run," while noting concerns that Russia had sought to sway the outcome with economic pressure and suggesting that Pashinyan's incumbent government had used advantages in the campaign.
The election was seen as a test of Armenia's break from its traditional alliance with Russia. Since coming to power in 2018, Pashinyan has cooled relations with Moscow and sought to strengthen ties with the European Union and NATO. This shift could weaken Russia's influence in Armenia.
Results gave Pashinyan's Civil Contract party 53.6% of the vote, while the opposition bloc came second with 23.5%. This allows Pashinyan to form a government and continue reforms.
Despite Russia maintaining a military base in Armenia, Pashinyan's pro-Western course worries Moscow. The election outcome may lead to a decline in Russia's influence in the region.