On December 25, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova addressed several topics at a briefing, including Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's proposal to dissolve the OSCE Minsk Group.

Zakharova reiterated that the group's work had been blocked by Western nations since February 2022, particularly the cessation of communication between American, French, and Russian co-chairs. She noted that subsequent developments, including Armenia's recognition of Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan at the October 6, 2022, summit in Prague and the September 2023 territorial changes, rendered the OSCE Minsk Group's mandate irrelevant. Zakharova suggested that the group's dissolution should proceed through a joint proposal by Baku and Yerevan.

Addressing a question from an Armenian journalist about Turkey's presence in regions historically associated with Russian influence, Zakharova clarified that the Azerbaijani flag, not the Turkish flag, flies in Karabakh. She emphasized that her comments reflected Armenia's leadership decisions, including its recognition of Nagorno-Karabakh as Azerbaijani territory. Zakharova dismissed the journalist's query as lacking sincere journalistic interest and highlighted Russia's consistent efforts to prevent regional escalation.

Zakharova also detailed Russian-funded programs implemented in Armenia. She cited initiatives such as the national school feeding program, which has operated since 2010 with $68 million in funding allocated through 2028, benefiting over 1,000 schools and supporting infrastructure improvements. Other Russian-supported projects in Armenia include rural development, renewable energy installation, post-conflict reconstruction, assistance for agricultural producers, combatant reintegration, and aid for individuals with disabilities. Zakharova noted the involvement of UN organizations in implementing these initiatives, emphasizing Russia's broader support for Armenia's development.

In response to a question about New Year’s wishes for Armenia, Zakharova conveyed a message of peace, prosperity, and overcoming challenges for the Armenian people. She reaffirmed Russia's commitment to assisting in Armenian-Azerbaijani normalization and regional connectivity initiatives.