Russian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Armenia Sergey Kopyrkin said that although Russia has paid attention to some recent statements about the Russian military presence being seen as a threat to security, but he attributes it more to an element of rhetoric that does not reflect the real position of the Armenian leadership, he told Sputnik Armenia.

He explained that while solving the problem of maintaining stability and ensuring the security of the population in the vulnerable regions, Russia is very actively working on the political settlement of the whole range of problems that exist in the region, and above all, in relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

"The speculation that Russia, they say, is leaving is most likely a voicing of wishful thinking. Apparently, people hope that an idea is material, and if it is constantly voiced, it will happen. I can say with all certainty that this is not part of Russia's plans. South Caucasus is a very important region and Russia is a de-facto part of it by virtue of geography, history and existing ties. Besides, we have obligations regarding Armenia and we are not going to give up these obligations. Talks about our alleged withdrawal are speculations," the diplomat said.