What Conditions Did Putin Present to Pashinyan

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during their meeting in Bishkek, discussing Armenia's intention to join the European Union and its membership in the EAEU. According to Putin, the adoption of a law to initiate the process of joining another organization effectively constitutes a declaration of exit from the current integration union.

“The adoption of a law regarding the start of the procedure for joining another organization means a declaration of exit from the present organization,” said Putin while talking about the EU and the EAEU.

The Russian president also proposed giving Armenian citizens the option to choose regarding EU membership and to clarify what they want. At the same time, Putin indicated that Moscow expects Yerevan to clarify its future choice between the EU and the EAEU as soon as possible so that Russia can understand how to build future relations with Armenia.

Earlier during the same meeting, Putin stated that Armenia's ambition to join the EU is its legitimate right, but it creates difficulties considering the country's membership in the EAEU. It is worth noting that Pashinyan has previously stated that Armenia is moving towards meeting EU standards while maintaining membership in the EAEU. According to him, if the combination of the two directions becomes impossible, the further choice will be made in conjunction with the citizens of Armenia.