Russia increases pressure on Armenia before Sunday's elections

Russia is increasing its pressure on Armenia in advance of the June 7 elections, as this once-close ally seeks to strengthen ties with Washington and Brussels. Russia, distracted by its 'war in Ukraine', is trying to keep Armenia within its orbit. However,?Prime Minster Nikol Pashinyan publicly criticized Moscow, while trying to plot a westwards path.

Here are some of Russia's warnings and trade restrictions in the lead-up to the election, which pits Pashinyan’s Civil Contract Party against a variety of opposition voices - many of whom are pro-Russian.

Armenia purchased 82% of its natural gas from Russia by 2025. Russian President Vladimir Putin informed Pashinyan, on April 1, that Armenia was paying $177.5 for 1,000 cubic meters of gas which would cost more than $600 in Europe.

Putin stated that the disparity was "vast" and that there were substantial differences. The Russian Foreign Ministry warned Armenia on May 27 that they would'suspend or terminate' the supply of oil, gas, and rough diamonds to Armenia if it continued with its plans to join the European Union.

BLOC SUSPENSION On May 29, the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), which offers a single market free of barriers to five 'former Soviet Republics', announced that it would suspend Armenia if it sought EU membership. It urged Armenia to hold a vote so its citizens could decide which direction to take.

The Armenian economy would be shook by a suspension. According to Armenian media, government statistics show that Russia will account for 35% of Armenia’s foreign trade by 2025. The EU will make up 11%.

Fresh Produce

According to Russia's agricultural watchdog, the country has temporarily restricted imports of Armenian fresh strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. Russia is the biggest market for Armenian fresh produce.

Russia has asked Armenia to suspend certification of all Armenian fish exporters except for two as of 2 June due to non-compliance with inspections at fish-processing plants.

ALCOHOL

Interfax reported that on May 23, Russia's consumer protection watchdog ordered Russian retailers and importers to stop selling certain "substandard wine and brandy" products made by Armenian companies.

FLOWERS

The Russian state news agency TASS reports that on May '22, Russia imposed temporary restrictions on Armenian floral products as its agricultural safety -watchdog conducted tests to prevent the spread of pests or plant diseases.

Mineral Water

The Consumer Safety Watchdog in Russia announced on April 28 that it had discovered labeling irregularities.

(source: Reuters)