Russian State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin recalled that anti-LGBT laws have been in effect in Russia for three years, prohibiting any propaganda of LGBT rights, pedophilia, and gender reassignment. He also noted that, according to the amendment to the country's Constitution, "marriage is a union between a man and a woman," emphasizing that this is the choice of Russian citizens.
The United Kingdom announced the complete lifting of the arms embargo on Azerbaijan and Armenia, which had been in place since 1992. The corresponding statement was published on the parliamentary website.
Minister for Europe and North America Stephen Doughty cited the changed situation in the region and the demise of the Minsk Group as the basis for this decision. The UK believes that lifting the embargo will strengthen the security and sovereignty of both countries and enable them to more effectively counter hybrid threats. It is emphasized that each arms export application will be carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
"The UK is fully lifting the arms embargo on Armenia and Azerbaijan. This will help develop security cooperation and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of these countries, including their response to hybrid threats. Export licenses will be reviewed individually based on strict criteria," the statement reads.