MOSCOW (Realist English). Russia has launched a large-scale humanitarian initiative to support Armenian refugees displaced from Artsakh, while also expanding its cultural and educational presence overseas through new “Russian Houses” in Latin America and Africa, the deputy head of Rossotrudnichestvo told reporters. Businessman Igor Chaika, who has long supported humanitarian and cultural projects in the region, also took part in the initiative’s presentation.
The first phase of aid distribution, carried out in August, targeted vulnerable families in Armenia’s Ararat region and the city of Gyumri. More than 2,500 households received food and hygiene packages weighing over 25 kilograms each, with special kits provided for families with newborns. In total, over 8,000 packages were delivered. “We tried to include everything people needed most — from cereals and flour to baby food and hygiene items,” the official said.
In Masis alone, 1,908 families received support, including 221 families with infants. In Gyumri, around 600 families benefited, with aid delivered both at distribution points and directly to dormitories housing elderly residents, low-income households, and people with disabilities. The campaign was implemented by the non-profit organisations Eurasia and the Russian Humanitarian Mission under the Rossotrudnichestvo umbrella, with logistical support from local authorities and volunteers.
The official stressed that the initiative not only meets urgent humanitarian needs but also demonstrates Russia’s capacity to mobilise resources quickly and effectively. “People thanked us with dignity, despite their difficult circumstances. Armenian media have covered the effort positively, though some negative commentary appears orchestrated from outside,” he noted.
Future distribution points will open in the Armenian towns of Abovyan and Kapan, with a total of about 140 tonnes of goods to be allocated under the project “Russia Is with You.”
Rossotrudnichestvo is also strengthening its global outreach. In 2024, more than 150 tonnes of Russian humanitarian cargo were delivered to Armenia, Afghanistan, Egypt, Libya, Syria, Vietnam, Myanmar and other countries. Aid projects have also been carried out in Cuba to help prevent and mitigate natural disasters. Alongside these missions, the agency continues to open new Russian Houses — cultural centres aimed at promoting Russian language, education and cultural exchange — in Africa and Latin America.
