Lavrov stated that Armenia must be held accountable for its words following its shift toward the EU
The Armenian leadership “cut to the chase” by passing a law on the country’s path toward the European Union and must now “live up to its words.”
Armenia has allegedly found itself facing the “EU cliché of ‘take it or leave it.’”
“And now neighboring Armenia is also facing this EU cliché of ‘choose one,’” Lavrov said.
He also reiterated Russian President Vladimir Putin’s position regarding Yerevan’s choice between integration into the Eurasian Economic Union and the EU.
“Armenia must decide for itself; it must make its own choice as to whether it wants to remain in the Eurasian Economic Union or join the European Union. We will respect whatever choice the Armenian people make, but let that choice be made,” Lavrov stated, citing Putin.
The Russian Foreign Minister also commented on discussions within Armenia regarding a possible referendum. In particular, he mentioned statements by Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan that a referendum would take place only “when the issue becomes critical.”
“And if Yerevan assumes that we will announce a referendum only when it becomes absolutely necessary to respond to the European Union, then that is not entirely democratic, I would say,” Lavrov noted.
He added that the adoption of a law on moving toward the EU effectively means the need to put the final decision to the people.
“If such a law exists, it means you’ve already put the issue on the table yourself, but then let’s be accountable for our words and turn to the people,” the Russian Foreign Minister concluded.
This was stated by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in an interview with Russian media, Panorama agency reports.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that the country could withdraw from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) if it deems it necessary.
Earlier, Belarus’s self-proclaimed President Alexander Lukashenko called on the Collective Security Treaty Organization to be more tactful in its relations with Yerevan.
Yerevan stated that it may resort to tough measures if the price of Russian gas rises. Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan noted that the country would consider withdrawing from the CSTO and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) if Russia takes such a step.
Armenia has appealed to the EU to send a rapid response team to counter Russian influence.
The Armenian opposition proposed creating a “Ministry of Sex” to promote women’s happiness.
According to the Foreign Intelligence Service, the launch of the TRIPP route between the U.S. and Armenia diminishes Russia’s role as the main player in the South Caucasus. The new corridor will connect Asia and Europe via Armenia and Azerbaijan without Moscow’s involvement.
The Speaker of theArmenian Parliament spoke out sharply against Russian propagandists.
