Russia has recalled its ambassador from Armenia in response to Yerevan's rapprochement with the European Union. The Kremlin said that such a course by the Armenian authorities harms cooperation within the Eurasian Economic Union. At the same time, Moscow has increased pressure on Armenia by restricting imports and threatening to cause problems with gas supplies.
- Russia withdrew its ambassador from Armenia because of Yerevan's course towards the EU.
- The Kremlin has claimed damage to the Eurasian Economic Union.
- Moscow threatened problems with cheap gas and restricted imports.
Diplomatic crisis between Russia and Armenia
Russia has recalled its ambassador from Armenia due to active Yerevan's rapprochement with the European Union. The Kremlin believes that the Armenian government's course is detrimental to the work of the Eurasian Economic Union. The move was part of a broader diplomatic tension between Moscow and Yerevan.
Moscow's energy and trade pressure
Moscow has already restricted imports of a number of goods from Armenia and threatened to make it harder to supply cheaper gas. These actions are intended to exert economic pressure on Armenia. pressure on Armenia to curb its European integration. The pressure on the energy market is particularly noticeable for the Armenian economy.
Comparison with Ukraine
President of Russia Vladimir Putin spent The parallel between Armenia and Ukraine, claiming that the latter's full-scale war was triggered by an attempt to join the EU. Such rhetoric indicates the Kremlin's fears of losing influence in the region due to European integration.
US support for Pashinyan
Before the 7 June parliamentary elections in Armenia, former US President Donald Trump publicly expressed support for Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Trump called him a great friend and leader, which adds international context to the political situation in Armenia and increases tensions with Russia.
Prospects for the development of the conflict
Given Moscow's increasing pressure and external support for Yerevan, relations between Russia and Armenia are on the verge of further escalation. The Kremlin's further actions and Armenia's reaction could significantly affect the geopolitical situation in the Caucasus region.
