Russia has recalled its ambassador to Armenia for consultations, citing Yerevan's growing rapprochement with the European Union. The move is seen as the latest sign of deteriorating relations between the longtime allies ahead of Armenia's parliamentary election on 7 June.
In a statement issued on Saturday (30 May), Russia's Foreign Ministry said Ambassador Sergei Kopyrkin had been summoned to Moscow because of steps taken by the Armenian leadership toward closer ties with the EU.
Moscow said Armenia's European ambitions were undermining cooperation within the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
The move comes a day after the EAEU warned that Armenia could face suspension from the bloc if it continues pursuing EU membership and called on Yerevan to hold a referendum on the issue.
The diplomatic dispute unfolds as Armenia heads toward a closely watched election on 7 June, with opinion polls showing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's pro-Western Civil Contract party leading its pro-Russian rivals.
Relations between Moscow and Yerevan have steadily worsened since Azerbaijan restored its sovereignty over Garabagh in 2023. Armenian officials have repeatedly accused Russia of failing to uphold its security commitments during the conflict, while Moscow has criticised Armenia's deepening engagement with Western partners.
Russia has increased pressure on Armenia in recent weeks, warning it could suspend preferential supplies of oil, gas and other key imports if Yerevan continues moving closer to the EU.
Moscow has also introduced restrictions on several Armenian agricultural exports.
The United States and the European Union have meanwhile expanded engagement with Armenia, supporting economic, political and connectivity initiatives in the South Caucasus. Russia argues that Western countries are attempting to weaken its influence in the former Soviet space.
Armenian authorities did not immediately respond to the recall of the Russian ambassador.
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Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for 30 May, covering the latest developments you need to know.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) says ongoing conflict, funding pressures and international travel restrictions are complicating efforts to contain a fast-growing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
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A renewed wave of U.S. diplomatic activity in the South Caucasus highlights Washington’s growing focus on regional connectivity, trade and security, according to Associate Professor George Mchedlishvili of European University in Tbilisi.
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Kazakhstan has reiterated that no existing route can replace the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), which carries more than 80% of the country's crude oil exports through Russia to the Black Sea.
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