Putin proposed a referendum for Armenia to determine the country's future
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Armenia's aspirations to join the European Union require careful consideration. He said Yerevan should promptly decide on its future course of action—EU membership or continued participation in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). He suggested considering a referendum to allow Armenian citizens to express their opinion.
"It's none of our business, but it would be entirely logical to hold a referendum and ask Armenian citizens what their choice would be. Accordingly, we would draw the appropriate conclusions and pursue a gentle, intelligent, and mutually beneficial divorce," Putin said.
The Russian president did not rule out the possibility that Armenia's plans for EU membership would be discussed at the upcoming Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) summit.
"We simply need to state in a timely manner what we will do. There's nothing special here. Everything needs to be calculated. Both the Armenian side and we need to calculate," he noted.
Putin also cited statistics showing that Russia's trade turnover with Armenia has declined, despite being significantly higher in previous years.
As a reminder, the eighth European Political Community summit was held in Yerevan on May 4, bringing together representatives from approximately 50 countries. Concurrently, on May 4-5, the first Armenia-EU summit was held in the Armenian capital, with the participation of EU leaders.
