A Slap for Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko. Volodymyr Zelensky in Armenia

President Zelensky's visit to Yerevan marks a significant moment, underscoring Armenia's evolving foreign policy and its strategic pivot away from Moscow's orbit. This is not merely a diplomatic courtesy; it's a powerful statement about Armenia's desire for greater autonomy and its re-engagement with European partners. The fact that President Macron noted Armenia's transformation from a perceived Russian satellite to a nation attracting high-level international visits speaks volumes.

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Russia announced that on May 9, a parade will be held in Moscow without military equipment. If this happens, it will be the first time in many years that they will not be able to afford to use military equipment, and they are also afraid that drones may fly over Red Square. This says a lot. It shows that (Russia - ed.) is no longer as strong as it used to be.

For Armenia, this visit is particularly symbolic. Despite ongoing formal alliances with Russia, such as through the CSTO and the Eurasian Economic Union, Yerevan has been increasingly seeking to diversify its international relations. Zelensky's presence, even with a Russian military base nearby in Gyumri, demonstrates Armenia's growing confidence in charting its own course. This move, while potentially irritating to Moscow, is crucial for Armenia's long-term security and economic interests.

Moscow's reaction, particularly from figures like Dmitry Medvedev, has been predictably hostile, labeling the meeting as one between 'brainless Russophobes.' This vitriol, however, only confirms the significance of the event and highlights Russia's concern over its diminishing influence in the region. Russian media outlets have also framed it as a 'worrying signal' and a 'blow to Russian-Armenian relations,' further validating Armenia's strategic shift.

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Let's be honest: eight years ago, nobody would have come here. Eight years ago, this country at the negotiating table was perceived as a de facto satellite of Russia. The fact that today we see so many first visits to your country is very telling.

From our perspective at Rzeczpospolita, this development is part of a broader trend in Eastern Europe where nations are reassessing their relationships with Russia. Armenia's move towards greater independence is a courageous step, especially given its historical ties and security dependencies. It sends a clear message that even long-standing alliances can be re-evaluated in pursuit of national interests. This visit is not just about Ukraine; it's about Armenia's sovereign choices and its future direction on the international stage.

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Today in Yerevan, two brainless Russophobes, who speak Russian excellently, talked to each other in broken English due to their own infirmity. Although it is quite possible that they did it for the cameras, and then again chatted in the great and mighty language they know (this is how the Russian writer Ivan Turgenev once described Russian).