In the near future, a visit to Armenia by the Vice President of the United States is expected, during which a number of agreements are planned to be signed, with one of the key areas related to the energy sector. This was stated by political technologist Armen Badalyan.
According to his assessment, this may include a possible agreement on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, under which Armenia could be involved in a modular nuclear power plant construction program.
A Modular Nuclear Power Plant as a U.S. Business Project
According to Badalyan, the idea of a modular nuclear power plant should be viewed primarily not as a solution to Armenia’s energy security challenges, but as part of the business interests of the United States.
He notes that such projects are needed by the U.S. as technological and economic initiatives, while Armenia in this case may serve as a platform for their implementation. Given the foreign policy and economic course of the current authorities, this scenario appears increasingly likely.
The political technologist draws attention to the fact that Armenia’s current leadership is consistently pursuing a policy of distancing itself from Russian energy and transport structures.
According to Badalyan, the logical continuation of this policy could be the acceptance of the American modular nuclear power plant project. Such a step would not only alter Armenia’s energy architecture, but also deepen its dependence on new centers of influence — in this case, Western ones.
Armenia as a Testing Ground
Badalyan claims that the United States has not yet implemented a fully operational modular nuclear power plant project anywhere in the world. He notes that attempts have been made, but none have been completed. This fact, according to the political technologist, raises serious questions about the advisability of a project intended for Armenia.
“Now we may become a testing ground,” Badalyan states.
The political technologist does not rule out that the implementation of such a project could lead to unpredictable consequences. According to Badalyan, if decisions are made not on the basis of technological readiness and comprehensive safety assessments, but driven by political interests, society could face serious risks.