French President Emmanuel Macron declared on Monday that Armenia has chosen a path "towards Europe," signaling a strategic pivot away from Moscow's political orbit. Speaking in Yerevan, Macron highlighted the landlocked post-Soviet state's gradual departure from Russian influence during a period of intense regional diplomacy.
According to a report by France 24, the French leader's remarks coincided with a gathering of European leaders in Armenia for regional summits focused on security and cooperation with the European Union. The visit took place as Armenia continues to build ties with Europe following frustrations over Moscow's perceived failure to protect the nation during conflicts with Azerbaijan.
Addressing members of the Armenian diaspora in the capital, Macron noted the historical dependence of the nation on its northern neighbor. "For decades, we had become somewhat accustomed to Armenia being, in a way, a satellite of Russia," Macron said.
He asserted that the country has actively worked to change this dynamic. "Armenia has indeed made the choice... to break free from this constraint and turn towards Europe," he added.
France's role in regional security
Macron also addressed the security vacuum left by Russia's recent inaction. He noted that France has provided material support to Armenia during its various conflicts with Azerbaijan.
Comparing the situation to other geopolitical crises, Macron stated, "Russia was not there, any more than it is there for Venezuela when there are problems."
France maintains deep diplomatic ties with Armenia, bolstered by one of the largest Armenian diaspora communities in the world. This week's summit in Yerevan included both the European Political Community and a joint Armenian-EU summit, bringing dozens of European leaders to the region to discuss long-term stability.
