Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko has urged a “careful and accurate” approach toward Armenia within the CSTO, as Yerevan continues to freeze its participation in the alliance.

Speaking to CSTO Secretary General Taalatbek Masadykov, Lukashenko noted that Armenia “seems not to support work within the CSTO, yet at the same time remains in the organization.”

He warned that the bloc should take into account Armenia’s domestic political situation. “The situation in Armenia is difficult… particularly during the election period,” he said.

Armenia suspended its participation in the CSTO in February 2024, citing dissatisfaction with the organization’s response to its security concerns.

At the same time, Armenian lawmaker Andranik Kocharyan indicated that full withdrawal remains possible. “Never say never. The world is very turbulent,” he said.

He also criticized the CSTO’s lack of concrete support. “They didn’t act, right? Our problem arose from the situation at Armenia’s borders, and we asked the CSTO for support two or three times. That support, aside from verbal statements, did not produce any results for us,” he added.

Kocharyan stressed that any future decision will be based solely on Armenia’s national interests.