Alexander Arzumanyan: Our political elite likes to choose between becoming a slave and enemy (video)
The Russian Empire is experiencing its last febrile convulsion; the ongoing war in eastern Ukraine shows it, says a former foreign minister of Armenia. Alexander Arzumanyan says Russia should be kept away from the process; in fact, the war was waged by Russia. “Russia should allow Ukraine to solve its problems because I do believe that Ukrainians will be able tom solve their problems without intervention of foreign countries,” says the lawmaker. Mr Arzumanyan believes that Russians troops entered eastern Ukraine to open a corridor to the annexed Crime. International sanctions were imposed on Russia in the result of this incursion. “These tough sanctions instill hope that talks will become more constructive, if, of course, European partners continue to demonstrate a rough stance, do not succumb to gas deals and weaken the pressure. I believe that the pressure on Russia should be strengthened for the country to understand the importance of peace,” he said. Mr Arzumanyan cannot say how the developments will affect Armenia after the country’s accession to the Eurasian Economic Union. “In case of confrontation, Russia would undoubtedly unleash war in Karabakh.” The former official says Armenia could have not joined the Customs Union, but our political elite likes to choose between becoming a slave and enemy. “We could have suspended both process and sought another option that would not conflict with Russia’s interest in our region and would be compliant with our European ambitions.” “We needn't anger Russia, but we should not become their slaves either. We should carry out a decent and normal policy with Turkey, Russia and Iran,” said Mr Arzumanyan.
