In a significant move, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has pledged to expedite the nation’s efforts to join the European Union, responding to mounting pressure from Russia. Reports indicate that during a conversation in July, Russian President Vladimir Putin urged Pashinyan to quickly hold a referendum in Armenia regarding EU membership or continuing its association with the Eurasian Economic Union.
Pashinyan asserted that a referendum could only occur after formally applying for EU membership. At a parliamentary meeting, he reiterated this stance.
“The process of applying for EU membership requires substantial work, and we will likely commence it soon, particularly to engage with our partners in the EEU,” he stated. He further noted that the referendum would be held after the official EU membership application is submitted and a roadmap for the process is established.
During the same meeting, Pashinyan addressed Armenia’s membership in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a military alliance involving Russia. He clarified that his political party’s program explicitly states plans not to rejoin the CSTO within the next five years.
“I can confidently say that we will not intensify our engagement with the CSTO. I recognize that discussions are ongoing within the organization, and its charter allows for a country to be excluded. I would be very pleased if the organization decided to expel Armenia from the CSTO, as this would resolve our dilemma of whether to withdraw or remain,” Pashinyan added, according to Factor.am.
Context
- Armenia’s increasing alignment with the EU and Western nations, as well as its hosting of international summits and Western leaders, is perceived as a gradual distancing from Russia. This shift has provoked a strong reaction from Moscow, with reports highlighting Armenia’s attempts to realign its foreign policy and reduce dependence on Russian structures.
- Putin announced that Armenia’s aspirations to strengthen ties with the EU require “special consideration.” Concurrently, Russian officials, including State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, have criticized Pashinyan for his unfriendly policies and deteriorating relations with Moscow. Additionally, Russia has banned the import and sale of Armenian mineral water “Jermuk” and certain types of cognac and wine over alleged salt content violations.
- Putin has also warned that Armenia may face a “Ukrainian scenario” due to its Euro-integration ambitions, as cited by The Moscow Times. Belarus’ self-proclaimed president Alexander Lukashenko echoed similar sentiments the following day.
