Russia seeks restrictions on Armenia’s CSTO membership rights over unpaid contributions

YEREVAN — Russia has submitted a proposal to restrict Armenia’s rights within the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), potentially suspending the country’s voting privileges and its ability to nominate candidates for positions within the Russian-led military alliance.

CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov confirmed the initiative on November 4, speaking to journalists at the Fourth Minsk International Conference on Eurasian Security.

According to Masadykov, the proposal concerns Armenia’s unpaid membership contributions and its decision to remain formally affiliated with the organization while abstaining from its activities.

If the relevant agenda is approved, the issue could be discussed at the November 10 meeting of the CSTO Collective Security Council.

Under Article 25 of the organization’s charter, a member state that fails to meet its financial obligations for two years may temporarily lose certain membership rights, including voting privileges and the right to nominate candidates for designated posts.

Masadykov emphasized that the proposal does not involve expelling Armenia from the alliance.

Yerevan froze its participation in CSTO activities in February 2024 after repeatedly criticizing the organization for failing to respond effectively to Azerbaijani military operations and threats against Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Armenian officials have since questioned the credibility of the alliance as a security guarantor. Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has stated that Yerevan sees no prospect of resuming its participation.

Nevertheless, Armenia has not formally withdrawn from the organization.

The latest Russian initiative reflects a deepening institutional rift, while also highlighting the unresolved questions surrounding Armenia’s future security partnerships and its continuing formal obligations to the CSTO.