Russia has called on Armenia to clarify its long-term foreign economic orientation between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the European Union, warning that continued ambiguity could affect economic cooperation and regional trade arrangements.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk said the issue is “extremely complex,” noting that economic and political considerations are closely linked amid Armenia’s ongoing domestic political debate, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.
“There are forces there that advocate maintaining ties with the Eurasian Economic Union. There are forces seeking to bring the country into the European Union,” Overchuk said, adding that Moscow prefers Armenia to remain within the EAEU framework.
He also said Russia supports the normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, including the development of transport links and trade routes across the South Caucasus. According to him, existing cooperation has already enabled limited restoration of regional connectivity, including rail transport of Russian goods via Azerbaijan and Georgia.
Overchuk stressed that Armenia currently benefits from EAEU membership, citing economic growth and improved living standards during its participation in the bloc. However, he warned that a shift toward the EU could raise questions over continued economic preferences from Russia and EAEU partners.
“If Armenia joins countries that are unfriendly towards Russia, why should we support that?” he said, adding that uncertainty over Armenia’s direction is already affecting investment and long-term planning.
The issue is expected to be discussed at the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council meeting on May 29 in Astana, where Armenia’s status within the union is on the agenda.
Overchuk concluded that the final decision rests with Armenia, but urged clarity, saying it would be “fairer both to Armenia’s EAEU allies and to Armenia itself.”
By Sabina Mammadli
