Eurasian Economic Union and Russia consider potential measures against Armenia over EU aspirations

Leaders of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) met in Astana to discuss the future of Armenia's membership amidst Yerevan's interest in joining the European Union. During the meeting, EAEU members suggested that Armenia should hold a referendum on EU membership, including an option to remain in the Russia-led union. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan did not attend, with Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan representing the country. Concurrently, Russia's Rosselkhoznadzor announced a temporary import ban on various Armenian agricultural products, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, effective Saturday. This follows previous bans on Armenian flowers, mineral water, and brandy. Moscow has also threatened to restrict energy and raw diamond supplies to Armenia, citing concerns over economic security and regional ties. Armenia, which relies on Russia for 82% of its natural gas imports, currently hosts Russian military bases.