Key facts
- The EU is providing Armenia with trade relief, liberalizing 80% of its exports.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the measures during a visit to Yerevan.
- The EU is providing an 18-million euro aid package, part of a larger support program.
- The trade relief aims to help Armenia diversify its exports away from Russia.
- Russia has warned of consequences for Armenia's pivot towards the West.
The European Union has announced autonomous trade measures for Armenia, described as "Ukraine-style" relief, to bolster the South Caucasus nation's economy against increasing Russian pressure. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed the package during a visit to Yerevan, pledging an 18-million euro aid installment and the elimination of import duties on most Armenian farm products.
Von der Leyen stated that Armenia is facing "significant economic pressure from Russia" and that the EU is stepping up to support its partners. The move aims to help Armenian producers diversify their export markets, particularly those currently relying heavily on Russia. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan thanked the EU for its support and highlighted the need to expedite technical resolutions for Armenian farm products as the harvesting season begins.
Russia, which maintains a military base in Armenia, has cautioned that Yerevan's Western alignment could lead to severe political and economic repercussions. Relations between Moscow and Yerevan have deteriorated following Azerbaijan's retaking of the Karabakh region, with Armenia accusing Russian peacekeepers of failing to prevent the offensive.
Von der Leyen's visit to Armenia followed her trip to Azerbaijan, where she announced a 200-million euro Global Gateway package. The EU, with financial partners, aims to mobilize up to 2 billion euros for strategic transport, energy, and digital projects across the South Caucasus.