Donald Trump has extended congratulations to Armenian Prime Minister, Nikol Pashinyan, following what he described as a “decisive victory” for the Civil Contract party in Armenia’s recent parliamentary election, which was held amid claims of external interference, including from Russia.
Pashinyan’s ruling Civil Contract party secured a parliamentary majority after winning 49.8 per cent of the vote, cementing its position in the country’s legislature. The outcome was quickly welcomed by Trump, who publicly backed the Armenian leader and praised the result.
“I was very proud to have endorsed him for re-election,” Mr Trump posted on social media, “and have no doubt that, with him as the leader of the beautiful country of Armenia, it’ll attain levels of greatness and success beyond everyone’s wildest expectations!”
The election took place against a backdrop of growing geopolitical strain involving Russia and Armenia. Since coming to power in 2018, Pashinyan has shifted Armenia’s foreign policy toward closer cooperation with the West, including pursuing European Union integration and strengthening ties with the United States.
Moscow has accused Western actors of attempting to influence Armenia’s electoral process, while also aligning with segments of the Armenian opposition in raising concerns over alleged voting irregularities. In parallel, Russian officials have signaled urgency over Armenia’s participation in both a post-Soviet military alliance and a regional economic bloc, stating the issue should be resolved without delay.
Tensions have also extended into trade relations. According to reporting from the TASS news agency, Russian authorities have requested the suspension of certification for most Armenian fish exporters, with a reported shift in trout imports toward suppliers in Iran and Turkey, citing statements attributed to agriculture watchdog chief Sergei Dankvert.
