Putin and Pashinyan meet at SCO in Bishkek
During a recent meeting at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Bishkek, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the future of the Russian military base in Armenia, stating, “If Armenia believes that the Russian military base is unnecessary, we could leave tomorrow. Is Armenia ready for this? Please, we will not impose anything on anyone.” His remarks came in response to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s assertion that Moscow has ceased to be a strategic partner for Yerevan.
The two leaders did not reach an agreement regarding Armenia’s relationships with the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Putin stressed that Armenia must choose between European integration and EAEU membership, warning that closer ties with the EU could dismantle the economic links established under the EAEU.
In reply, Pashinyan pointed out that the law initiating the process for EU membership does not contradict Armenia’s obligations to the EAEU and Russia. He emphasized that Armenia has not initiated any exit procedures from the union and sees no need for a referendum, asserting that the European course does not violate existing agreements. Pashinyan affirmed Armenia’s right to choose its own path while remaining formally committed to its alliance obligations.
The debate also extended to the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), with Putin claiming the alliance remains a core element of regional security and that Yerevan must consider its commitments to partners. Conversely, Pashinyan expressed disappointment with the CSTO, stating it failed to meet Armenia’s expectations during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, noting the lack of real support which severely undermined trust in the organization.
Context
- Reports indicate Armenia is strengthening ties with the EU and Western nations by hosting international summits and welcoming Western leaders, actions perceived as a gradual distancing from Russia. This shift has elicited a tense response from Moscow, which views Armenia’s orientation as an attempt to reconfigure its foreign policy and reduce dependence on Russian structures.
- Putin has remarked that Armenia’s aspirations for closer relations with the EU necessitate “special consideration.” Concurrently, Russian officials have criticized Pashinyan’s policies as unfriendly and detrimental to ties with Moscow, with the Russian consumer safety watchdog imposing a ban on the import and sale of Armenian mineral water and certain spirits, citing alleged violations.
- Furthermore, Putin has warned that Armenia could face a “Ukrainian scenario” due to its Euro-integration efforts, a sentiment echoed by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko.
