In light of rising friction with Russia, Armenia has signaled potential aspirations to join the European Union, a move that could further align it with Western nations. Armenia’s top diplomat, Ararat Mirzoyan, shared this sentiment in a March 9 interview, indicating a shift in the country’s strategic orientation.
Discussing Armenia’s future prospects, Mirzoyan stated, “Many new opportunities are up for consideration in Armenia these days, and it wouldn’t be surprising to note that this includes EU membership ambitions,” during his conversation with TRT World, a Turkish broadcaster.
Despite historically siding with Russia in its ongoing dispute with Azerbaijan, Armenia has seen tensions rise with its former ally, especially after peacekeepers from Russia failed to intervene in Azerbaijan’s military incursion into Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023.
Prime Minister of Armenia, Pashinyan, has declared that Armenia’s involvement in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), led by Russia, has been “put on ice.” This declaration came after the organization did not act during the Azerbaijani offensive last September.
Since assuming power following the 2018 revolution, Pashinyan’s administration has been cultivating stronger relations with Western countries, drawing criticism from Russian officials.
Armenian leadership, including Pashinyan, has openly criticized Russia for its unreliability as a partner and has looked to establish security cooperation with other nations, including France, the U.S., and India.
Earlier in 2023, Armenia became a member of the International Criminal Court, which obliges it to detain Russian President Vladimir Putin if he enters its territory—a decision that provoked a sharp response from the Kremlin.
Just this week, Armenia requested the departure of Russian peacekeepers that have been stationed at Yerevan’s main airport since the nation gained independence.
FAQ – Armenia’s EU Membership Consideration and Relations with Russia
Q: Why is Armenia considering EU membership?
A: Armenia is exploring the possibility of EU membership to strengthen ties with Western countries amid growing tensions with Russia.
Q: What incidents have led to the strained relations between Armenia and Russia?
A: Relations soured after Russian peacekeepers did not stop Azerbaijan’s attack into Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023 and the CSTO’s inaction during the conflict.
Q: Has Armenia taken steps to align itself with other countries?
A: Yes, Armenia has been fostering security connections with France, the U.S., and India while also joining the International Criminal Court with obligations against Russia.
Q: What was the reaction of the Kremlin to Armenia joining the International Criminal Court?
A: The Kremlin labeled Armenia’s decision to join the ICC as an “unfriendly step” and criticized it as “the wrong decision.”
Conclusion
Armenia’s contemplation of EU membership denotes a significant potential shift in its foreign policy in response to the unreliable stance of traditional ally Russia. This development, together with Armenia’s reinforced partnerships with various Western nations, could redefine the geopolitical dynamics of the region. The growing rift with Russia, highlighted by recent events such as the disengagement from CSTO activities and the expulsion of Russian peacekeepers from Armenian soil, underscores a historical pivot for Armenia as it seeks to navigate a path toward greater integration with Europe.