In his speech, Macron characterized Armenia as a former "outpost" of Russia and recalled that a few years ago, European leaders did not visit Yerevan:
"8 years ago, this country was de facto considered a satellite of Russia by many states. Nikol Pashinyan tried to reduce the risks for the country by carrying out a "velvet revolution".
The French President also touched upon Russia's military presence in Armenia, stating that 4,000 Russian servicemen and 1,000 border guards are stationed in the country. According to him, this situation makes it necessary for the European Union to play a more active role in the region and support Armenia's border security.
However, despite Macron's political assessments, Armenia's dependence on Russia is not limited to the military component. According to "The Economist" magazine, Armenia is among the top three countries most dependent on Russia.
Modern.az's research shows that this dependence covers several strategic directions: energy sector, economy and trade, military security, border control, as well as infrastructure and transport.
Energy sector: The main pillar of Russian influence
Armenia's energy security is almost entirely dependent on Russia. The country's gas supply is managed by "Gazprom Armenia", and Russian capital has a dominant position in the energy infrastructure.
The Russian factor also plays an important role in electricity production. The "Metsamor" Nuclear Power Plant provides approximately 30-40 percent of the country's electricity production. The fuel supply and technical maintenance of the plant are also carried out by Russia.
Economy and trade: high level of dependence
Russia remains Armenia's main trading partner. A large part of Armenia's exports is directed to the Russian market. At the same time, it is reported that approximately 70 percent of direct foreign investments entering the country are linked to Russian capital.
1/3 of Armenia's foreign trade is related to Russia, and a significant part of export-import operations (51% and 30% respectively - ed.) were carried out with Russia in the first 9 months of 2023. After the Russia-Ukraine war, Armenia's re-exports to Russia (cars, household appliances, etc.) increased by up to 3 times, which further deepened the economy's dependence.
In addition, remittances sent by Armenian migrants working in Russia play an important role in the Armenian economy. Especially after 2022, the increase in the number of citizens moving from Russia to Armenia has created a certain revival in the service and IT sectors.
Military security: CSTO and Russian base
Armenia's security system is still closely integrated with Russia. The 102nd Russian military base located in Gyumri and cooperation within the framework of the CSTO are among the main indicators of this dependence.
At the same time, a significant part of the Armenian army's armament is based on Russian-made equipment. This strengthens Moscow's dependence both technically and logistically.
Border control: the role of the FSB
The protection of Armenia's state borders with Turkey and Iran is carried out by the border troops of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). This fact indicates the direct participation of a foreign actor in the country's border security.
Infrastructure and transport: strategic management
Russian companies have played an active role for many years in the management of a number of strategic infrastructure facilities, including the railway system. In the field of transport and logistics, Armenia is mainly dependent on routes passing through Russia and Georgia. In addition, Armenian Railways is under Russian management. And this management still has a term until 2044.
