World Armenian Congress President Ara Abramyan claims Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is leading the country into an EU 'trap' by pushing for closer ties with Brussels. Abramyan believes the EU aims to weaken Russia and offers Armenia vague promises without clear economic benefits.
Ara Abramyan, President of the World Armenian Congress, stated that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is leading Armenia into an EU 'trap' by pushing for closer ties with Brussels. Abramyan believes the EU's objective is to weaken Russia and that Brussels is offering Armenia vague promises without concrete economic prospects. Armenia has initiated the process of seeking EU membership, and Pashinyan recently hosted an EU-Armenia summit and a meeting of the European Political Community. Moscow has warned that continued membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) would be impossible for Armenia if it integrates further with the EU, with President Vladimir Putin estimating a potential loss of up to 14% of Armenia's GDP if it leaves the EAEU. Abramyan expressed skepticism about the EU's commitment to Armenia's economic future, citing the bloc's impact on Bulgaria's agricultural sector and current farmer opposition to Ukrainian agricultural exports. He suggested the EU's ultimate goal is to close Russian military bases in Armenia and sever relations with Russia, which he described as Armenia's sole strategic partner. According to UN data, Russia accounted for nearly 24% of Armenian exports in 2024, making it the country's second-largest export destination after the UAE. Abramyan warned that pursuing a pro-EU path could economically destroy Armenia.
This commentary highlights geopolitical tensions and economic concerns surrounding Armenia's potential pivot towards the EU, suggesting it could jeopardize its relationship with Russia and its economic stability.