EAEU countries urge Armenia to hold a referendum on joining the European Union

Leaders of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) have issued a joint statement urging Armenia to make a definitive choice between deepening ties with the European Union and remaining within the EAEU.

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the potential preparation for Armenia’s accession to the EU could create “serious risks to the economic security” of the Eurasian Economic Union.

The presidents of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan stated that Armenia's potential accession to the EU could create "serious risks to the economic security" of the EAEU. They anticipate a report by December detailing the consequences for Armenia if it suspends its membership in the Union.

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does not mean Armenia’s membership in the European Union in the direct sense of the word

This call comes as the Armenian parliament has adopted a law to begin the process of joining the EU. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan clarified that this move does not equate to direct EU membership, emphasizing that such a decision would require a referendum. He has also repeatedly stated that Armenia is not considering leaving the EAEU and aims to maintain good relations with Moscow without prioritizing Russian interests over national ones.

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the question of Armenia’s exit from the EAEU is not being considered.

Russian President Vladimir Putin encouraged Yerevan to choose between the two blocs, suggesting a "soft and intelligent divorce" if Armenia pursues EU integration. Moscow has warned of potential contradictions between European norms and EAEU rules, and even the suspension or denunciation of agreements on natural gas and petroleum product supplies. Restrictions have also been placed on certain Armenian exports, including agricultural products and flowers, amid this geopolitical tension.

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in the case of a course towards the EU, a “soft and intelligent divorce” is possible.