Armenia votes in polarized legislative elections amid EU-Russia tensions

Erevan, June 7 (EFE) - Approximately 2.5 million Armenians are eligible to vote in what are described as the most polarized legislative elections in recent years. The political landscape is heavily influenced by Russian pressure, stemming from Armenia's increasing alignment with the European Union.

Polling stations opened at 8:00 AM local time. Voting is restricted to within the country, excluding the large Armenian diaspora. The Civil Contract party, led by incumbent Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian, is the frontrunner, with polls suggesting around 30% of the vote. Pashinian's victory is crucial not only for his re-election but also for securing a parliamentary majority needed to amend the constitution and finalize a peace treaty with Azerbaijan, which would facilitate joint transport projects in the South Caucasus supported by the EU and the US.

Several opposition parties are competing for parliamentary representation. Armenia Strong is projected to receive between 10% and 16% of the vote, followed by a bloc led by former President Robert Kocharian (1998-2008). Other parties, including Prosperous Armenia, the Union of Armenians, and Bright Armenia, may also cross the electoral threshold, which is 4% for parties and 8-10% for blocs.

Pashinian, who came to power in the 2018 Velvet Revolution, advocates for transforming Armenia into a crossroads between Europe and Asia, with backing from the US and the EU. In a move to ease tensions with the Armenian Apostolic Church, the government recently placed Bishop Bagrat Galstanián, a leader of anti-government protests, under house arrest.

Meanwhile, Samvel Karapetian, the leader of Armenia Strong and a figure with close ties to Moscow, favors maintaining strong links with Russia, Armenia's primary trading partner. Independent media reports suggest Prosperous Armenia has a cooperation agreement with Russia's United Russia party, and Armenian presidential administration reportedly backs Tatoyan. Russia's Foreign Ministry has warned that the prosecution of political opposition could cast doubt on the election's legitimacy. If no party secures a majority, a second round of voting will be held within nine days.