Russia increases pressure on Armenia before Sunday's elections

Russia is increasing its pressure on Armenia in advance of the June 7 'election. The once-close ally has been pursuing deeper ties with Washington and Brussels. Russia, distracted by its war with Ukraine, is trying to keep Armenia within its orbit, but Prime Minister Nikol Paşinyan publicly criticized Moscow as he tried?to plot a westwards path.

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 every?1,000 cubic meters of gas, which would cost more than $600 in Europe.

Putin stated that the disparity was vast and the difference substantial.

The Russian Foreign Ministry warned Armenia on?May 27 that it would stop or suspend the supply of oil, gas and rough diamonds to Armenia if it continued with its application to join the European Union.

BLOC SUSPENSION

The Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), which offers a single, barrier-free?market for five former Soviet Republics, announced on May 29 that it would suspend Armenia if it sought?EU membership. It also urged Armenia to hold a referendum to allow its citizens to vote on the path they want 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 only 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.

The watchdog has imposed new restrictions on different types fruit including cherries, apricots and plums.

On June 3, the restrictions were further widened, including the importation of apples, pears, eggplants and certain dried fruits.

The Russian market is the largest for Armenian fresh products.

Russia requested that Armenia suspend certification of all Armenian fish exporters except for two as of 2 June due to non-compliance of inspections of fish processing?facilities.

ALCOHOL

Interfax reported that on May 23, Russia's consumer protection watchdog ordered Russian retailers and importers not to sell certain "substandard” wine and brandy made by three Armenian companies.

FLOWERS

TASS, the state news agency, reported that on May 22, Russia temporarily restricted Armenian flower 'products' while its agricultural safety monitor 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)