U.S. backs Armenia’s sovereignty and says political future must be decided by Armenians

The United States supports Armenia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence, including its right to determine its own foreign policy and relationships, a U.S. State Department spokesperson said in an exclusive comment to RFE/RL’s Armenian Service.

The spokesperson was responding to questions about reports of foreign interference surrounding Armenia’s upcoming June 7 elections and warnings issued by some American lawmakers. The State Department emphasized that Armenia’s political future should be decided solely by its citizens.

“We are aware of media reports regarding external interference in Armenia’s political processes. The Armenian people have the right to choose their leadership and shape their future,” the spokesperson said.

The State Department also highlighted the deepening relationship between Yerevan and Washington and underscored the importance of the TRIPP project. A framework agreement related to the initiative was signed this week by Armenia’s foreign minister, following an earlier signing by the U.S. Secretary of State.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan said after the signing that the agreement is now ready for ratification. “As demonstrated by the Secretary of State’s recent visit to Yerevan, TRIPP is of key and long-term significance in bringing peace and prosperity to Armenia and the South Caucasus,” the State Department spokesperson told RFE/RL.