Russian border guards officially leave Zvartnots Airport
On Wednesday, Russia officially completed the withdrawal of its border guards from Yerevan's Zvartnots International Airport. This process began months ago following an official request from the Armenian government.
For decades, Russian border guards worked at the airport alongside their Armenian colleagues. However, earlier this year, Armenian authorities announced that the Armenian side now possesses sufficient experience and technical capabilities to carry out border control independently.
An official ceremony took place at the airport, during which representatives of the two countries signed a corresponding protocol. Now, only the border guard troops of Armenia's National Security Service will perform duties at all checkpoints of Zvartnots Airport.
This change is of significant importance for Armenia and is seen as a step toward strengthening the country's sovereignty. Although Russian border guards have left the airport, they still continue to guard Armenia's state borders with Turkey and Iran, in accordance with previously signed agreements.
The Armenian government expressed gratitude to the Russian side for many years of joint work and support provided. From now on, the Armenian side will bear full responsibility for the security and border control of the airport.