Russia warns Armenia that ‘playing with words’ about membership in Moscow-led military bloc ‘may not lead to anything good’

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova issued a stern warning Wednesday to Armenian leadership and cautioned that "playing with words" about its membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) -- a Moscow-led military bloc, could have serious consequences.

Zakharova noted at a news conference in the Far East city of Vladivostok, shifting statements from Armenian authorities who first claimed that "the CSTO left the territory of Armenia," and then suggested that Armenia had frozen its membership in the organization.

"Each statement must carry not only meaning, which is crucial, but also responsibility, especially when voiced by an official. There are consequences for what is said," she said.

Zakharova pointed out that despite the statements, Armenia remains a de jure full member of the CSTO, retaining all associated rights and obligations.

She expressed concern, however, that Armenian leadership seems to be distancing itself from cooperation -- a move that she believes goes against the interests of the Armenian people.

"We sincerely hope that, in the interest of Armenia's future security and the stability of the entire region, our partnership within the CSTO will be fully restored," said Zakharova. "Playing with words may not lead to anything good, especially considering the many trials the region has already endured."

Armenia's distancing from the CSTO is tied to several factors, primarily stemming from its dissatisfaction with the bloc's response to its security concerns, especially regarding the conflict with Azerbaijan in the Karabakh region.