Russian border guards withdraw from Zvartnots Airport
On Wednesday, Russia completed the withdrawal of its border guard troops from Yerevan's Zvartnots International Airport. This process took place at the request of the Armenian authorities, which was presented earlier this year.
For decades, Russian border guards, together with their Armenian counterparts, monitored Armenia's air gateway. Their presence was based on a treaty signed in 1992. However, Yerevan recently decided that the Armenian side now has sufficient experience and capabilities to carry out this service independently.
An official ceremony took place at the airport, during which the relevant protocols were signed. The command of the Armenian border guard troops thanked the Russian side for the long-term cooperation and the efforts invested in ensuring security.
From now on, passport control and border security at Zvartnots Airport will be carried out only by employees of the National Security Service of Armenia. This is seen as an important step on the path to strengthening the country's sovereignty and state institutions.
Despite leaving the airport, Russian border guards still continue their service on Armenia's borders with Turkey and Iran. This event demonstrates the currently changing nature of relations between Armenia and Russia.