Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk has issued a stern warning to Armenia, stating that discussions on joining the European Union would be viewed as the beginning of Armenia's withdrawal from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).  

"We are viewing the start of the discussion on the bill of launching the process of entry into the European Union in Armenia as the beginning of Armenia’s exit from the EAEU," Overchuk stated in remarks to reporters.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the Russian Federation would reevaluate its economic policies toward Armenia in light of this development. "The Russian Federation will establish its economic policy in respect of Armenia with consideration of this circumstance," Overchuk noted.

Despite his comments, Overchuk acknowledged Armenia’s sovereignty in making such decisions. "In the meantime, this is the sovereign choice of the Republic of Armenia and she definitely has the right to it," he added.

The EAEU, a Russia-led economic bloc, was established to strengthen economic ties among its members, which include Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. Any move by Armenia to align itself more closely with the EU could signal a significant shift in its geopolitical and economic orientation.

Armenia has not yet formally announced its intention to exit the EAEU, but the initiation of discussions on EU accession is likely to be closely monitored in Moscow and other member states. (ILKHA)