Armenia caught between Russia and Europe as trade tensions escalate
Yerevan faces European uncertainty as EAEU tensions deepen
Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin to resolve trade restrictions on Armenian agricultural and food products, citing violations of bilateral agreements and Eurasian Economic Union rules. Russia has imposed sanctions on fruits, vegetables, dairy, and other goods, attributing them to safety violations โ a claim Armenian authorities dispute.
The restrictions highlight Armenia's strategic dilemma. While pursuing EU accession and expanding Western ties, Armenia remains dependent on Russian markets, which account for 35 percent of its foreign trade, and Russian energy supplies. Moscow has warned that Armenia cannot simultaneously maintain full membership in both the EAEU and the EU due to incompatible regulatory systems.
Pashinyan responded by intensifying rhetoric, suggesting the restrictions mark "the beginning of the end" of the EAEU. The dispute reflects deeper tensions over whether Armenia can balance European integration with its traditional Russian ties.
