Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, referring to journalist Hayk Khalatyan’s observation that the blockade of Nagorno Karabakh is similar to the blockade of Leningrad by the Nazis and the question of what Russia is going to do, answered:

“Does Yerevan understand that they are harming the population of Nagorno-Karabakh with such statements about the Russian Federation (about the non-fulfillment of their function by the peacekeepers)?” We hear statements from Armenia that dependence on Russia does not allow to ensure security. People representing the state should approach their statements with responsibility. Don’t they know how many citizens of Armenia it was possible to save, including thanks to Moscow’s efforts? Do they not know about it in Armenia? Of course, they know. Why is all that being forgotten now? Do they want to rewrite history? It doesn’t work,” Zakharova added.

The Spokeswoman of the Foreign Ministry, responding to the journalist’s quote that Russia is leaving the region due to steps it takes or does not take, noted:

“Without comment specifically on this statement, but on all the statements made by Pashinyan recently. The Prime Minister of Armenia has said a lot lately. I would like to point out that one should be responsible for one’s actions, and not endlessly and at every opportunity looking for culprits. This is precisely the difference between a politician, a statesman and a passing person who does not think about the national interests of his country. Otherwise it’s a bit like a story about a bad dancer.”

Maria Zakharova, answering the question of the reporter of “Anadolu” Agency, how the Russian side relates to the decision to send the ratification of the Rome Statute to the Armenian parliament, answered:

“We have already requested explanations from the Armenian side, and we will build our further steps based on the official response of Yerevan.”