Russia threatens Armenia with sanctions over rapprochement with the EU; the issue will be discussed at Putin's summit

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will participate in the Eurasian Economic Union summit in Astana on May 29, where one of the main topics will be the escalation of relations with Armenia due to its intention to move closer to the European Union. This is reported by Bloomberg, according to UNN.

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Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated on the eve of the meeting that the situation surrounding Armenia is complex and will certainly be discussed during the negotiations. Moscow is dissatisfied with Yerevan's intentions to move toward EU membership, although the process itself could take years. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will not participate in the summit, explaining this by preparations for the parliamentary elections on June 7.

Pashinyan announced the end of Armenia's dependence on a "single ally"28.05.26, 06:15 • 5826 views

Against the backdrop of political disagreements, Russia has increased pressure on Armenia. Moscow warned that if the course toward EU accession continues, agreements regarding the supply of gas, fuel, and other strategic goods could be revised. Furthermore, in recent weeks, Russia has already restricted the import of several Armenian goods, including flowers, wine, brandy, mineral water, and vegetables.

Analysts believe that the Kremlin's economic pressure is linked not only to geopolitics but also to the internal political situation in Armenia ahead of the elections. At the same time, the country remains an important part of the so-called Middle Corridor between Europe and China, which is seen as an alternative to routes through Russian territory.

Russia increases pressure on Armenia over its course toward the EU24.05.26, 04:15 • 10058 views