Top news of the day: New changes in Armenia-Russia relations and a community loss
The United States has stated that Russia has “turned its back on” Armenia, and because of this Washington is trying to reduce Armenia’s dependence on Russia. This statement is important because it shows that the policies of major powers in the region are changing, while Armenia is becoming a more active center of discussion at the international level. The report notes that the United States wants to support Armenia in cooperating in new directions.
Another important development related to this topic has also taken place in Armenia. Russia has completed the withdrawal of its border guards from Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport. The withdrawal was completed on Wednesday and was carried out after Armenia had earlier demanded that the Russian border guards leave the airport. This step is also seen as part of the changes noticeable in Armenia-Russia relations.
The departure of Russian border guards from Zvartnots Airport is a significant event because it concerns issues of Armenia’s border and security control. The airport is the country’s main international gateway, and a change in the format of service there may have both practical and political significance. The report shows that Yerevan is trying to have greater control over its important institutions.
At the same time, the U.S. statement about Russia contains a broader political message. In Washington’s assessment, Moscow is no longer maintaining its former role toward Armenia, and for that reason the United States is trying to deepen ties with Yerevan. This is another sign that Armenia’s foreign relations are now in a period of change.
The day’s news also included sad community information. Hazmik Kolanjian, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and relative, has died. She passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024. Asbarez reported this in an obituary.
Hazmik Kolanjian, née Karalekian, was born in Lebanon in 1951. In the published notice of her death, she is presented as a person loved by family and relatives. Such announcements hold an important place in Armenian Diaspora community life because they inform people of a loss and pay tribute to the memory of the deceased.
Thus, the main picture of the day brings together two major themes: the changing international political situation around Armenia and the personal, painful loss in community life. On the one hand, important changes continue in Armenia-Russia relations and in the U.S. political approach, while on the other hand, the community bids farewell to Hazmik Kolanjian.