Russia has warned Armenia against introducing a visa regime for Russian citizens, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova saying such a move would ultimately hurt Armenians themselves.

“If Armenia suddenly introduces visas, it will not introduce them against us - it will introduce them against its own citizens,” Zakharova said, according to Gazeta.ru.

She argued that the measure could have a significant impact on people in Armenia who maintain close family ties with Russia.

Zakharova also pointed to the large number of Russian citizens with relatives in Armenia, suggesting that a visa requirement could make travel and family visits more difficult.