Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has claimed victory in the country’s parliamentary elections, strengthening his mandate to deepen ties with Europe and reduce

Armenia’s reliance on Russia.

Preliminary results showed Pashinyan’s ruling Civil Contract party securing nearly 50% of the vote, comfortably ahead of the pro-Russian Strong Armenia alliance led by businessman Samvel Karapetyan.

Describing the outcome as a “historic victory,” Pashinyan said voters had endorsed a platform focused on peace, stability and closer integration with Europe. The election marked Armenia’s first national vote since its 2023 military defeat to Azerbaijan, which resulted in the loss of control over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.

European leaders were quick to welcome the result. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Pashinyan, praising Armenia’s democratic progress and its growing partnership with Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron also welcomed the outcome, saying it would help strengthen Armenia’s European ties.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot praised voter participation, stating that Armenians had reaffirmed their commitment to democracy, peace and closer cooperation with Europe despite what he described as external pressure and interference.

The election result is likely to be viewed as a setback for Moscow, as relations between Armenia and Russia have deteriorated in recent years. Pashinyan has repeatedly criticised Russia for failing to support Armenia during the 2023 conflict with Azerbaijan. Ahead of the vote, Russian President Vladimir Putin cautioned against Yerevan moving closer to the European Union.

Despite the victory, Pashinyan’s party did not secure the large parliamentary majority required to amend the constitution, a measure considered important for finalising a long-term peace agreement with Azerbaijan.

The prime minister also continues to face criticism from opposition groups, which accuse him of making excessive concessions to Baku and of concentrating power at home. Nevertheless, the election outcome signals continued public backing for his efforts to steer Armenia toward a more European future. Photo by iravaban.net, Wikimedia commons.