Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova launched harsh criticism against Europe, accusing it of being “armed to the teeth“ and promoting conflict on the continent. European governments have increased military spending in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine and what they describe as the risk of Russian aggression against a NATO country, a scenario Moscow considers absurd.
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Zakharova: Moscow maintains good cooperation with Armenia but wants to know where the country is heading
Zakharova also stated that Russia remains committed to constructive dialogue and cooperation with Armenia, but has questions regarding the country’s strategic plans. Relations between the two countries, which are official allies, have deteriorated amid efforts by pro-Western Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to seek re-election in Sunday’s upcoming elections.
Zakharova told reporters that it is natural for Moscow to seek understanding of the direction Armenia’s leadership is trying to take the country.
Russia accuses US of triggering arms race
Meanwhile, Russia condemned US efforts to trigger an arms competition in the Asia-Pacific region, as she stated, just days after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called on Washington’s allies in the region to increase defense spending to prevent Chinese dominance.
Responding to a question about Hegseth’s comments in a May 30 speech, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Moscow condemns the “persistent efforts” of the US to use proxy forces to trigger an arms race.