Tensions rise between Armenia and Russia over geopolitical alignment

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that Armenia must urgently clarify its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), arguing that integration with the EU is incompatible with these blocs. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has sought closer ties with the European Union, which recently offered Armenia tariff-free access for agricultural exports. Relations have deteriorated significantly since 2024, when Pashinyan suspended Armenia's participation in the Russia-led CSTO following dissatisfaction with security guarantees during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Russia has accused Western countries of interfering in Armenian elections to favor Pashinyan, while international observers have noted pressure from Moscow during the political process. Concurrently, Russia imposed restrictions on imports of Armenian vegetables, fruits, and fish in May 2024, citing sanitary violations, though these actions are widely viewed as economic pressure. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed support for Armenia, promising economic assistance exceeding 50 million euros. The situation remains fluid as both Yerevan and Moscow navigate these diverging strategic paths.