Joint Military Exercise by Armenia and US Sparks Russian Ire

'Eagle Partner', a joint military exercise between Armenia and the United States has caused diplomatic tension with Russia. This move is perceived as an attempt by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to strengthen relations with Western allies amidst ongoing conflict with Azerbaijan. Moscow has lodged a formal protest against these exercises.

On Monday, Armenia initiated a joint military exercise with the United States, a move that has caused significant tension with its main ally, Russia. The "Eagle Partner" war games are set to run until September 20 and include participation from 175 Armenian and 85 U.S troops. This exercise is reflective of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's efforts to establish stronger ties with the United States and other Western allies amidst ongoing tensions with neighbouring Azerbaijan.

Rationale Behind the Joint Exercise

The Armenian Defense Ministry has stated that these drills aim at enhancing the interoperability of units participating in international peacekeeping missions as well as fostering an exchange of tactical skills. In recent years, Armenia has been progressively deepening its relationship with Western nations while maintaining a careful balance between them and Russia.

Russia's Reaction

This development hasn't gone unnoticed by Moscow which reacted strongly against it. On Friday, the Russian Foreign Ministry summoned Armenia’s ambassador to lodge a formal protest over these exercises along with other actions taken by Armenia which they perceive as "unfriendly". Since the Soviet collapse in 1991, Russia has remained Armenia's principal economic partner and ally. Landlocked Armenia houses a Russian military base and is part of Moscow-led security alliance consisting of former Soviet nations known as Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO).

Armenia Leaning Westward?

Nikol Pashinyan's administration appears to be increasingly critical of Moscow’s role in regional affairs. He emphasizes Russia's failure to assist in lifting the blockade on Nagorno-Karabakh - an Armenian-populated region within Azerbaijan that declared independence but isn't recognized internationally - arguing instead for greater engagement with Western powers for securing national interests.

Implications for Regional Stability

This shift in Armenia's foreign policy could potentially have significant implications for regional stability. The simmering tensions with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, coupled with the recent military exercises, may heighten geo-political uncertainties in the Caucasus region.

In conclusion, while Armenia’s move towards closer ties with Western allies represents a strategic shift in its foreign policy orientation, it also exposes the nation to potential backlash from Russia. With this joint military exercise serving as a clear indication of Armenia's intent to diversify its alliances and reduce dependence on any single power bloc, it remains to be seen how this will impact the delicate balance of power within the region and beyond.