Replace Russian Soldiers in Armenia with Greek Observers?
American critics and Turkish propagandists continue to criticize the Russian troop presence in Armenia, falsely claiming it as evidence that Armenia is a Russian satrapy and hostile to Western interests.
This argument is ignorant of history, as the Red Army established a military base in Gyumri, Armenia's second largest city, at the end of World War II.
- The base was initially home to the 261st Rifle Division.
- After the Cold War began, the unit was redesignated as the 37th Rifle Division and then the 127th Motor Rifle Division.
The Russian troop presence is not evidence of Armenia being a Russian satrapy, but rather a historical presence since World War II.
Author's summary: Russian troops in Armenia are not a sign of satrapy.