Russia Pressures Armenia Over European Union Accession Bid

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has pressured Armenia to choose between its membership in the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and its pursuit of European Union (EU) membership. Lavrov argued that the norms of the two blocs are incompatible and called for a referendum to let Armenian citizens decide their strategic direction after Armenia adopted legislation to begin the EU accession process.

Lavrov questioned the strategic gain of EU membership, citing Armenia's existing economic integration with Russia. He noted that bilateral trade has grown significantly, exceeding $6 billion over the last three years and reaching $12 billion in a single year, while highlighting the benefits of lower energy prices provided by Russia.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan rejected calls for an immediate referendum, stating that a vote should only occur after an EU application is submitted and an accession roadmap is prepared. Pashinyan has set a goal for EU visa liberalization by 2029.

Amid these tensions, Lavrov stated that Moscow's policy is guided by the interests of the Armenian people following the detention of former Armenian President Robert Kocharyan. He also noted that former President Serzh Sargsyan remains under investigation, reflecting a period of political instability and deteriorating relations between Moscow and Yerevan.