Russia has accused France of exacerbating tensions in the South Caucasus following a recent agreement to sell artillery systems to Armenia.

The accusation came from Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, who on Wednesday described the deal as a provocation.

“Paris is provoking another round of armed confrontation in the South Caucasus, and they are doing it in different ways. This [sale] is another step,” Zakharova told journalists.

Zakharova's comments were echoed by Azerbaijan’s Defense Ministry, which criticized France for its "policy of militarization and geopolitical intrigue" and for "preventing the normalization of relations" between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

“[This] policy of revanchism by the Armenian leadership is a manifestation of political irresponsibility, opening the way to a new war,” the Azerbaijani statement read.

Armenia's acquisition of the French-made CAESAR self-propelled howitzers on Tuesday reflects its intent to strengthen security ties with Western nations amidst growing tensions with its traditional ally, Russia.

Relations between Yerevan and Moscow have soured following the failure of Russian peacekeepers to intervene during Azerbaijan’s 2023 offensive in the disputed region of Nagorno Karabakh.

The sale marks a significant shift in regional alliances and underscores Armenia's strategic pivot towards Western military support amid a backdrop of regional instability. (ILKHA)