Armenia takes control of border with Iran as Russian guards withdraw

For the first time since its independence, Armenia has assumed full control over the Agarak border checkpoint along its border with Iran.

As of December 30, Armenian border guards have replaced Russian personnel who managed the checkpoint for over three decades.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced the transition on his official Facebook page, acknowledging the service of Russian border guards and extending his wishes to the Armenian forces now in charge.

“From today on, border control is carried out only by the officers of the Republic of Armenia Border Guard Forces at the Agarak border crossing point of Armenia-Iran state border. Until now, since Armenia's independence, border control was carried out by the Russian Federation Border Guard troops officers at Agarak crossing point, and I want to thank them for their service. And I wish success and good service to our border guards who have taken over border control from today,” Pashinyan said as reported by the Newsweek.

The decision follows an agreement between Pashinyan and Russian President Vladimir Putin during an October 8 meeting. As part of the arrangement, Armenian forces will also begin managing border security with Turkey and Iran from January 1, 2025.

The move is part of broader changes in Armenia-Russia relations, which include the withdrawal of Russian guards from Zvartnots International Airport and other border locations.

Armenia’s decision to assume greater responsibility for its borders comes amid shifting alliances and a reevaluation of its reliance on Moscow, particularly after Russia’s limited response to recent conflicts involving Armenia and Azerbaijan.

In March, Yerevan called for the withdrawal of Russian guards from key locations, citing heightened tensions with its traditional ally.

The transition also reflects broader geopolitical currents. Armenia’s ties with Iran, a key regional ally, remain strong, with cooperation in energy and trade bolstering relations. The two nations share a 44-kilometer border, and Iran views Armenia as a strategic counterbalance to Azerbaijan and Turkey.

Tehran has consistently emphasized its interest in maintaining stability along its northern border, where regional conflicts often intersect with ethnic and religious divisions.

The decision has drawn criticism from Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which warned that the shift could undermine Armenia’s security and economic stability. Despite these warnings, Armenian officials maintain that the change represents a step toward greater sovereignty.

The evolving dynamics in the South Caucasus suggest continued realignment. Armenia’s recalibration of its defense and foreign policy could have lasting implications, particularly as it navigates tensions with Azerbaijan and manages its alliances with Iran and the broader international community.