Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Russia and Armenia are linked by a unique relationship rooted in shared history and close ties between their peoples.

According to Zakharova, Armenia is not only a sovereign state for Moscow but also a country connected to Russia through common historical experience, countless joint projects, mixed families, business links and intertwined personal destinies.

“For us, Armenia is, of course, a sovereign state. But it is also a country with which we share a special relationship because of our common history and everything we have built together — families, projects, businesses and human lives,” she said in an interview with blogger Olga Blagoveshchenskaya, as quoted by TASS.

Zakharova added that Russia's approach toward Armenia had always been based on assistance and support, driven not only by geopolitical considerations but also by what she described as genuine affection between the two nations.

“I believe this has always been motivated both by geopolitical considerations, as diplomats would say, and by what I call love — sincere love between peoples and cultures, their mutual interconnection and these authentic ties,” she said.

She also argued that Russia and Armenia are united by common cultural values that form “a truly vast world.”

Zakharova further said Russian President Vladimir Putin had done “a great deal” to stop bloody conflicts, support Armenia during difficult periods and contribute to its development, adding that extensive cooperation had also taken place in the economy, energy, industry and other sectors.

Russia has imposed restrictions on imports of a number of Armenian products. The measures include bans on Jermuk mineral water, flowers and certain alcoholic beverages, as well as restrictions on agricultural goods including tomatoes, cucumbers and strawberries. Since June 2, Russia has also restricted the import and transit to other Eurasian Economic Union member states of cherries, apricots, peaches, plums, grapes and other stone fruits from Armenia. Since June 3, restrictions have also applied to eggplants, potatoes and dried fruits originating in Armenia.