Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan declared a decisive victory for his ruling Civil Contract party after parliamentary elections that were widely viewed as a crucial test of the country's geopolitical direction and its future relationship with both Europe and Russia. Speaking at a press conference early Monday, Pashinyan described the outcome as a “historic victory” after preliminary results showed his party comfortably ahead of its competitors.

The election result, once confirmed, would cement Pashinyan's Westward push away from Russian influence. It is the first vote since a 2023 crushing military defeat by Azerbaijan.

Armenians have voted in elections that pit pro-EU Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan against the pro-Russia opposition. Peace efforts with longtime foe Azerbaijan are also a main…