Russia warns Armenia gas diversification will cost more than Russian supply

Russian Security Council Deputy Secretary Alexei Shevtsov warned that Armenia's gas imports from non-Russian sources would be significantly more expensive than current preferential Russian gas, which he credits for Armenia's recent stability and growth. The statement is a coercive diplomatic signal amid Armenia's ongoing diversification away from Russia, though it contains no new policy change. It matters because it pressures Armenia's energy choices and reflects broader Russia-Armenia friction.