[78935] Escalating crisis in Russia-Armenia relations: trade restrictions, political threats and phone calls

Growing tension between Yerevan and Moscow

The relationship between Russia and Armenia is going through a particularly tense period ahead of the Armenian parliamentary elections on June 7, 2026. According to BBC News | Русская служба, Moscow is exerting heavy economic pressure on the administration led by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, threatening harsh measures in response to what it perceives as "Armenia's turn to the West." In a conversation with Медуза — LIVE, it was noted that despite the tension, a phone call took place between Putin and Pashinyan in which the results of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) summit in Astana were discussed.

Economic restrictions and a "cold war"

Starting June 2, Россельхознадзор announced the suspension of veterinary permits for the export of fish and fish products from Armenia to Russia, citing "unsatisfactory results" in inspections. This measure joins a series of previous restrictions on the export of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and "Jermuk" brand mineral water. ZERGULIO🇷🇺, which is identified with clear pro-Russian positions, claimed that "Armenia's European choice and Russophobia should be paid for by Russia." Conversely, Pravda Gerashchenko, which presents a critical line against the Kremlin, argues that this is an "attempt to undermine internal stability in Armenia before the elections."

Position of the Armenian administration

Pashinyan clarified that Armenia will continue to work within the framework of the EAEU "as long as the choice between this organization and the European Union does not become inevitable." In a quote provided by Медуза — все новости, the Prime Minister emphasized that holding a referendum at this stage is illogical and baseless, as long as Armenia has not submitted a formal application for membership in the European Union.

The issue of election interference

A report by NEXTA Live alleged that the Kremlin is considering flying approximately 100,000 Armenian citizens living in Russia to vote in the upcoming June 7 elections against Pashinyan's party, a claim that is causing concern among international observers. On the other hand, channels identified with the Kremlin such as СОЛОВЬЁВ continue to present Pashinyan as someone who is deceiving his people and repeating the "Ukrainian scenario."