Armenia Denies Ukrainian Intelligence Claims of Russia’s Increased Military Presence in Gyumri
The official authorities in Yerevan have publicly dismissed assertions made by Ukrainian intelligence agencies regarding Russia's alleged accelerated military buildup at its base in Gyumri, Armenia. Armenia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly refutes any claims that the country’s territory is being used to escalate military and political pressure on neighboring countries in the South Caucasus. Responding to circulating reports, Armenian diplomats emphasize that their nation strictly upholds the principles of sovereignty and neutrality, and will not permit its land to be exploited for hostile actions against others in the region. These statements follow claims from Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate, which asserts that Russia is rushing to reinforce its military infrastructure in Gyumri as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its influence in the region. Armenia’s government maintains that any military deployment on its territory is unacceptable and risks destabilizing the fragile regional security landscape. Recently, tensions have escalated between Moscow and Baku, triggered by the detention and death of Azerbaijani nationals by Russian forces, further complicating regional stability. Internal political unrest in Armenia, including allegations of plots to orchestrate a coup, adds uncertainty and concern over potential further destabilization in the South Caucasus.