Russian television host Vladimir Solovyov said that Armenia and Central Asia are within Russia’s sphere of influence and suggested that losing control over these regions could pose a threat to Russian national security, as per to the statements he made on the January 10 episode of Solovyov Live.
Solovyov commented on global geopolitical developments, including the U.S. military operation in Venezuela and protests in Iran, stating that global powers assert control by disregarding international norms. He contrasted this with what he described as Russia’s interests, saying that the Kremlin should prioritize preserving influence over neighbouring countries rather than focusing on distant conflicts.
“We must not lose our positions, but the most important thing for us is our neighbouring countries,” he said, adding that events in Armenia are “far more painful for us than what’s happening in Venezuela” and that “problems in our Asia, in Central Asia … could be a gigantic problem for us.”
Solovyov called for Russia to clarify its goals and formally define its zone of influence. He argued that international law and current international order principles should not restrict actions justified by national security, and suggested that Russia might consider conducting a “special military operation” in regions it views as within its influence, similar to the operation it has conducted in Ukraine. “To hell with international law, international order,” he stated, and questioned why such operations would be restricted to Ukrainian territory.
There have been no official comments from Uzbekistan's government agencies regarding Solovyov’s remarks.
