Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that Armenia should consider holding a referendum regarding its relationship with the European Union and its membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). His comments, made during a press conference on May 9, reflect ongoing discussions about Armenia’s geopolitical alignment.
Putin stated that he has previously discussed the issue with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. He emphasized the need for careful consideration of Armenia’s plans to join the EU, noting that any decision should prioritize the interests of the Armenian people.
“We will support whatever is beneficial for the Armenian people. If the Armenian people find a particular decision advantageous, we will not oppose it. However, we must consider certain circumstances that are important for both us and our partners,” he remarked.
According to Putin, the economic ties between Armenia and Russia are significantly beneficial for Armenia, which enjoys numerous privileges as a member of the EAEU.
He added, “It would be appropriate to determine the population’s stance as soon as possible, for instance, by holding a referendum… and asking the citizens of Armenia what their choice would be. Based on that, we would draw appropriate conclusions and pursue a mutually beneficial separation if necessary.”
Putin also linked Armenia’s potential EU aspirations to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating, “Everything that is happening in Ukraine began with the attempt of Ukraine to join the EU.” He referred to former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych’s decision to abandon EU membership talks, which he claimed led to significant economic repercussions for Ukraine and ultimately to political upheaval.
“We are currently experiencing everything that is happening in the Ukrainian context. And where did it all start? With the attempt of Ukraine to join the EU,” Putin said.
He further asserted that the situation escalated into a coup and subsequent military conflict, stressing the importance of timely decisions regarding Armenia’s future.
Reactions from Armenia
In response to Putin’s remarks, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who is currently campaigning in the Vayots Dzor region, did not directly address the suggestion of a referendum. When asked about his reaction, he stated, “We are running out of time. There is no time to waste.”
The Prime Minister’s office has not confirmed or denied whether Pashinyan will attend the upcoming EAEU summit in Astana on May 28-29. He has been on leave since May 8 for campaign activities and indicated that he would only interrupt his leave on May 28 for a specific commitment, suggesting he may not travel to Astana.
Meanwhile, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan reiterated that Armenia is a member of the EAEU and will make decisions regarding European integration at the appropriate time. “When the time comes for Armenia to choose between the EAEU and the EU, we will make that decision. For now, we are a member of the EAEU and will continue our activities there. It is also no secret that the Armenian people have European aspirations. When the time comes to decide, we will do so,” he stated.
On January 9, 2025, the Armenian government approved a bill to initiate the process of joining the European Union. At that time, Pashinyan clarified that the approval of the bill did not equate to EU membership, emphasizing the need for discussions with the EU and a referendum as mandated by the Armenian Constitution.
On February 12, the Armenian parliament passed a bill titled “On the Start of the Process of Armenia’s Accession to the European Union.” Subsequently, on April 4, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan signed the law to commence the EU accession process.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed a referendum for Armenia to decide on its EU membership, linking the suggestion to past events in Ukraine. Armenian officials, while acknowledging their EAEU membership, emphasize the need for careful consideration of future integration decisions.