Russia makes comparisons to Ukraine as Armenians head to the polls

Polls open in Armenia for parliamentary elections as the incumbent government of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan seeks closer relations with the European Union and the US.

Against him in the polls include opposition parties that take a pro-Russian stance. Pashinyan and his ruling Civil Contract party are looking for a strong mandate for a new geopolitical course.

Some of their opponents, including the opposition Strong Armenia party, are vocally pro-Russian.

Investigators issued six arrest warrants for members of Strong Armenia accusing them of buying votes a day ahead of the election.

The Strong Armenia Party did manage to run in Sunday's election.

In recent weeks, Russian officials have hit Armenian exports with a barrage of restrictions, while high-ranking officials - including President Vladimir Putin -have made thinly veiled threats, comparing Armenia's path to that already taken by Ukraine.