Russia slams Armenia's offer to refugees as 'provocation'

Russia has sharply criticized Armenia's apparent willingness to welcome Russians seeking to avoid military mobilization. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova described the statements by Armenian Security Council Secretary Alen Simonyan as a provocation, accusing Yerevan of inciting illegal actions among Russian citizens.

Zakharova, speaking on August 29, 2026, stated that Armenia's remarks lend a "toxic political hue" to traditional Armenian hospitality. She suggested that Simonyan succumbed to a provocative question from a "journalist foreign agent." The Russian official also blamed the "Ukrainian junta and its Western backers" for spreading rumors of impending mobilization.

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At the border, no one will ask why they came here. Armenia will not hinder in any way, and if necessary, we will help.

Simonyan had reportedly said that those arriving at the border would not be questioned about their reasons for coming. He added that Armenia would not interfere and would provide assistance if needed. This statement comes amid ongoing media reports, denied by the Kremlin, that a new wave of mobilization could be announced in Russia after parliamentary elections in the fall.

Reports in July indicated a surge in demand for housing in Armenia from Russian citizens attempting to escape potential mobilization, leading to inflated rental prices. The Russian Foreign Ministry's strong reaction suggests a significant diplomatic tension over the issue, highlighting the complex relationship between the two countries.

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incites Russian citizens to take illegal actions and gives traditional Armenian hospitality a toxic political hue.