Putin: Armenia’s European Aspirations Create Challenges for Eurasian Economic Union

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Tuesday, highlighting Russia’s position as Armenia’s primary trade and economic partner. Putin reported that the trade turnover between the two nations reached $2.5 billion in early 2026.

The Russian President elaborated on the implications of Armenia’s European aspirations, stating, “Armenia’s desire to join the European Union is a legitimate right of the country, but this will create problems, including in relation to its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union.” He noted that Armenia’s gross domestic product has tripled since joining the Eurasian Economic Union, with exports to member states increasing tenfold.

Vladimir Putin further commented, “The sooner Armenia decides on joining the European Union, the better. Moscow needs to know how to develop its relations.” He reiterated Moscow’s consistent support for developing friendly and mutually beneficial relations with Yerevan, emphasizing that this aligns with the fundamental interests of Russia and the people of Armenia. Russian companies are noted to be strengthening Armenia’s energy security and are among the largest taxpayers in the country.