Armenia Turns Westward After Feeling Betrayed by Russia's Failure to Defend It Against Azerbaijan

Armenia has begun military exercises with the US, rankling Russia which sees Armenia as its own backyard. This comes after Russia failed to defend Armenia against Azerbaijan.

Armenia feels betrayed by Russia's inability to uphold the 2020 ceasefire, with Russia reluctant to choose between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Armenia is frustrated with Russia and is looking to diversify its security, taking small steps like sending aid to Ukraine and moving to join the ICC.

Russia has reacted angrily to Armenia's outreach to the West, seeing it as a snub and questioning Armenia's intentions.

Armenia risks angering both Russia and the West as it tries to balance ties, but feels Russia has not upheld its security commitments.