The West is attempting to remove the Armenia–Azerbaijan normalization process from its regional context and subordinate it to its own interests.

Axar.az reports that this statement was made by Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova.

She noted that while Armenia and Azerbaijan are seeking constructive and mutually acceptable solutions with the assistance of their regional partners—Russia, Iran, and Turkey—Western actors are interfering in the process without regard for the interests of the region’s countries:

“Another convenient excuse from Brussels—pure opportunism. Once again, Western powers aim to reshape the peace process between Baku and Yerevan to suit their political goals and to declare diplomatic success for themselves. Such actions risk destabilizing the region’s security and undermining the principle of regional self-reliance.”

Zakharova also stated that Moscow has observed Washington’s attempts to intervene in discussions regarding the reopening of regional transport routes:

“The U.S. has presented its own ‘unique’ vision of a solution. However, Russia believes that Washington is not in a position to propose anything beyond what has already been agreed upon by the trilateral working group co-chaired by the deputy prime ministers of Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Western influence on the Armenian leadership has proven disruptive to the group’s work.”

She added that the current transport infrastructure in the region complies with CIS standards, and that for Armenia, Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) regulations and the common customs space serve as a guiding framework.

It should be noted that reports have emerged claiming that the U.S. offered to take responsibility for the security of the Zangezur corridor, and that Armenia has accepted the proposal.