Kathrine Frich
A senior Kremlin-linked media figure has again drawn attention with aggressive rhetoric.
His remarks follow dramatic developments in Venezuela and revive questions about how far Moscow is willing to go to protect its influence abroad.
The comments come as frustration is growing within Russia’s political and media circles over what they describe as declining control in key regions.
New target named
Vladimir Solovyov, one of Russia’s most prominent television propagandists, has warned that Armenia could face serious consequences.
Referring to recent events in Venezuela, he said that “the loss of Armenia could be much more painful.”
Solovyov made the comments in a recording circulated by the Nexta portal.
He argued that Moscow should stop worrying about international opinion, especially in Europe.
He has previously issued threats toward Poland, the Baltic states and the United Kingdom.
Venezuela reference
Solovyov linked his warning to developments in Venezuela, where Russia had long maintained close cooperation with the government.
Moscow helped Caracas bypass US sanctions, sell oil abroad and keep its energy sector running.
That partnership was shaken after the United States captured President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.
They are accused by US authorities of, among other things, coordinating cocaine smuggling into the country.
Solovyov presented the episode as a lesson in what happens when influence is lost.
Armenia’s position
Armenia remains heavily dependent on Russia, particularly in energy.
Moscow is its main supplier of gas, and Russian companies control large parts of the economy.
At the same time, Armenian leaders and the public have accused Russia of failing to protect the country during its recent conflict with Azerbaijan.
A peace agreement was ultimately reached with the involvement of US President Donald Trump.
This tension has strained what was once seen as a close alliance.
Call for force
In his remarks, Solovyov openly advocated the use of military power.
“If it was necessary to launch a ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine for our own security, then, guided by the same considerations, we should launch it in other countries,” he said.
He added that Russia must “stop caring about what people in Europe think.”
He also said Moscow should “stop feeling sorry for the Ukrainians,” arguing that early brutality could have reduced later losses.
Russian officials have not publicly commented on his statements.
Sources: Nexta, O2.
