Russia Boosts Military Presence in Armenia

Amid escalating tension with Armenia stemming from Yerevan’s desire to pivot westward, and lacking the ability to offer economic incentives, Russia is resorting to a traditional tactic to get its way: throw troops at the problem. A memo purportedly written by a high-ranking commander of Russia’s Southern Military District, and leaked by Ukrainian military intelligence, indicates that Russia is bolstering its troop contingent at its 102nd military base near the Armenian city of Gyumri. The document supposedly outlines steps needed to…