Armenia holds parliamentary elections on Sunday with the incumbent government seeking to reduce Russian influence and strengthen Western ties, described by voters and observers as a referendum on the country's independence and geopolitical direction.

Le Monde

France 24

Armenians are voting on Sunday in parliamentary elections as the incumbent government, facing mounting pressure from Russia, seeks to loosen ties with Moscow and deepen cooperation with the West. Speaking to residents, FRANCE 24's Olivia Bizot said the vote is widely being seen as a "referendum on independence". One voter described the election as "existential" for Armenia, citing aggressive rhetoric from neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, according to Western intelligence and government officia