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 deepen ties with Washington and Brussels.

Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of Armenia, has publicly criticised Moscow for its distraction by the war in Ukraine.

Here are some of the warnings and trade restrictions issued by Russia ahead of 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 be over $600 per 1,000 cubic meters in Europe.

Putin stated that the disparity between the two countries is vast.

The Russian Foreign Ministry warned Armenia on May 27 that they would "suspend or discontinue the supply of cheap gas, oil and rough diamonds" if Yerevan continued with its bid to become a member of the European Union.

BLOC - SUSPENSION

The Eurasian Economic Union led by Russia, which offers a single market free of barriers to five former Soviet Republics, announced on May 29 that it would "consider suspending Armenia" for its desire to join the EU and encouraged it to hold a vote so their people could decide which direction to go.

The Armenian economy would be shook by a suspension. According to Armenian media, the Russian market accounted approximately 35% of Armenia’s foreign trade by 2025. The EU was responsible for 11%.

Fresh Produce

According to Russia's agricultural watchdog, Russia has temporarily restricted the importation of Armenian fresh tomatos, cucumbers peppers, leafy vegetables and strawberries, citing alleged phytosanitary concerns.

The watchdog has imposed additional restrictions on a variety of fruits, including cherries and grapes.

The largest market for Armenian produce is Russia.

Russia requested that Armenia suspend certification of all Armenian fish exporters except for two as of June 2, due to an alleged failure to comply with inspections at fish-processing plants.

ALCOHOL

According to Interfax, on May 23, the Russian consumer safety watchdog ordered Russian retailers and importers not to sell certain "substandard quality" wines and brandies made by three Armenian firms.

FLOWERS

The state news agency TASS reports that on May 22, Russia imposed temporary restrictions for Armenian flower 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)