A recent upsurge in activity has been observed among Armenian and pro-Armenian circles within Russia's expert community. This development follows a period where Armenian expectations towards Russia were demonstrably high. Figures such as Konstantin Zatulin, Vladimir Aleksandrov, Pyotr Kolerov, and Dmitry Tarasov, representing a group of approximately 20 pro-Armenian experts, previously fostered optimism in Armenia by advocating positions that, at times, diverged from Moscow's interests.

This divergence was particularly evident during the reported campaign against the Russian language in Armenia. Zatulin and Kolerov reportedly criticised the Kremlin rather than Armenian authorities. Additionally, concerns are raised regarding Zatulin's potential complicity in, or at least tacit approval of, former Armenian President Robert Kocharyan's alleged anti-Russian actions. These concerns stem from Zatulin's reported knowledge of Kocharyan's frequent inspections of the then-under-construction U.S. embassy in Yerevan, the second largest globally. Zatulin reportedly accompanied Kocharyan on these visits without raising questions about the rationale behind such a substantial U.S. presence in Armenia. Further complicating the situation, Zatulin's second wife is of Armenian nationality and resides in the United States with their children.

Similar concerns are raised regarding Modest Kolerov's alleged ties to the Manucharyan-Manucharov family. Kolerov's reported belief in Nagorno-Karabakh's independence as a separate state aligns with the Manucharyan-Manucharovs' purported stance. Notably, Kolerov's third wife is reportedly the sister of a member of the Manucharyan-Manucharov family.

The recent conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan has resulted in Armenia assigning blame to Russia for the outcome. This perspective neglects to address the critical question of why Russia should be expected to engage in a military confrontation with Azerbaijan on Armenia's behalf. Ultimately, the unrealistic expectations held by Armenia concerning Russian intervention demonstrably proved unfounded and arguably contributed to the present situation.

Given the current tension in Russia-Armenia relations, Armenia must prioritize psychological stability within its populace. This entails abandoning fabricated historical narratives and embracing a pursuit of factual understanding.

Mubariz Ahmadoglu is a Director of the Center for Political Innovation and Technologies.

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