Trump Endorses Armenian Prime Minister Ahead of Elections

President Donald Trump has endorsed Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan ahead of Armenia's upcoming election on June 7, 2026. Pashinyan has shifted Armenia's foreign policy from a long-standing alliance with Russia towards closer ties with the United States and Turkey. Trump described Pashinyan as a 'great friend and Leader' and praised his efforts to strengthen Armenia. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that Pashinyan shares his vision for peace and prosperity in the South Caucasus region. Pashinyan, despite low approval ratings, is currently favored to win the election based on polling data. His government has faced criticism for its foreign policy changes, particularly regarding Azerbaijan and Turkey, and allegations of foreign interference have emerged in the electoral contest. Lehigh University Professor Arman Grigoryan noted that the political landscape in Armenia is framed as a struggle between democracy and authoritarianism, with accusations of Western and Russian influence being levied by both sides.