Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that the European Union's investments in Armenia are driven by a desire to expand its influence. She emphasized that this is not about aiding development, but rather about interfering in the country’s internal affairs.
“Financial and economic assistance has long ceased to be genuine support for the EU. Instead, it has become a tool to influence third countries' political agendas, both foreign and domestic. We believe that support for social and economic development and key infrastructure projects should be based on entirely different principles,” she said at a press briefing, according to RIA Novosti.
Zakharova added that aid must respect national sovereignty, preserve cultural identity, and consider the recipient countries’ foreign and economic interests.
President of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan recently signed into law a bill passed by the National Assembly declaring Armenia’s intention to join the EU—despite the EU having made no formal membership offer. Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan clarified that the law does not constitute an official application, but rather signals Armenia’s intention to deepen its relations with the Union.
Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk stated that Armenia’s move is seen as a potential step toward leaving the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and Russia will adjust its economic policies accordingly.
