Armenia Russia Armeniarussia Relations Nikol Pashinyan Azerbaijan

## Armenia and Russia: A Complex Relationship ### Historical Ties Armenia and Russia have a long and complex history, dating back to the 19th century. Armenia was a part of the Russian Empire from 1828 to 1917. During this time, many Armenians migrated to Russia, and the two countries developed strong cultural and economic ties. ### Post-Soviet Relations After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Armenia became an independent republic. Russia remained a major political and economic partner, providing military and economic assistance to Armenia. However, relations between the two countries have been strained at times, particularly over the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh, a disputed territory between Armenia and Azerbaijan. ### Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is a long-standing dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The conflict began in the late 1980s, when Nagorno-Karabakh, an Armenian-majority region within Azerbaijan, declared independence. This led to a war between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which lasted from 1991 to 1994. The war ended with a ceasefire, but the conflict has not been resolved and remains a source of tension between the two countries. ### Russian Role in the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict Russia has played a significant role in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Russia has been a mediator between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the conflict, and has also provided military assistance to Armenia. However, Russia's role in the conflict has been criticized by some, who argue that Russia has been biased in favor of Armenia. ### Current Relations In recent years, relations between Armenia and Russia have improved. The two countries have signed a number of agreements on economic and military cooperation. However, the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh remains a source of tension between the two countries.