Armenia to Host Joint Military Exercises with US, Aimed at International Peacekeeping Missions
Yerevan, Armenia – In an effort to bolster its preparedness for international peacekeeping missions, Armenia is gearing up to host joint military exercises with the United States next week. The drills, set to take place in Armenia’s capital city, Yerevan, will see the participation of 85 American soldiers and 175 Armenian military personnel. The exercises, however, will not include heavy weaponry, a decision that has raised eyebrows and concerns from the Russian government.
The purpose of the drills is to enhance Armenia’s capabilities in maintaining regional stability and to better equip its armed forces for peacekeeping operations abroad. This move comes as part of Armenia’s ongoing efforts to diversify its military partnerships and expand its cooperation with different nations.
The decision to hold these joint exercises with the US is not without its complications. Earlier this year, Armenia declined to host military drills conducted by the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), highlighting tensions between Armenia and Russia. These tensions can be traced back to the conflicts with neighboring Azerbaijan over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has been vocal in criticizing Russia for not adequately protecting Armenia against aggression from Azerbaijan. This criticism has exacerbated the already frayed relationship between the two nations. The Russian government, which maintains a military base in Armenia and considers itself the dominant power in the South Caucasus region, expressed its concern over the upcoming joint exercises with the US.
Despite the disagreements, Russia insists on its crucial role in stabilizing the region. The Russian government’s insistence on being a key player in the South Caucasus remains steadfast, regardless of the tensions it has at times created with Armenia.
The joint military exercises with the United States serve as a reminder of Armenia’s determination to forge partnerships beyond its traditional alliances. While the drills may contribute to the country’s international peacekeeping capabilities, they also serve as a subtle message to its regional neighbors, showcasing Armenia’s independent foreign policy and its efforts to diversify military partnerships.
As the joint military exercises draw near, all eyes will be on Yerevan, watching how these drills unfold and assessing their potential impact on the delicate geopolitical balance in the South Caucasus region.
“Travel aficionado. Incurable bacon specialist. Tv evangelist. Wannabe internet enthusiast. Typical creator.”