The messaging from Moscow has been pro-Armenia but critical of its government. And some Armenians are questioning their leaders’ flirtation, as mild as it’s been, with the West.
Many in the country believe their government isn’t doing a good job convincing the world that their side is right, and they are taking matters into their own hands.
While Armenians have been disappointed by the lack of a strong international response to the war with Azerbaijan, the isolation also has encouraged a sense of unity and solidarity.
Azerbaijan has demanded a full withdrawal of Armenian forces, and Armenia is hinting it might formally recognize Nagorno-Karabakh as an independent country.
The United States is seeking update global security frameworks for the 21st century. China’s reluctance to join discussions on limiting nuclear weapons, however, could be increasing the chances of a new arms race.