Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has stated that Armenia aims to strengthen its ties with the European Union while still maintaining a relationship with Russia. In an exclusive interview, he highlighted that Armenia’s foreign policy is shifting towards being more balanced and independent.
Pashinyan acknowledged that Armenia’s relationship with Russia can no longer resemble past dynamics. Instead of replacing dependence on one power with another, he aims to diversify Armenia’s political and economic options. This evolution follows years of turmoil, including Armenia’s 2018 revolution, ongoing conflicts with Azerbaijan, and the migration of Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh.
Central to this shift is the expanding relationship with the EU. Pashinyan pointed to the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement signed in 2017, noting that cooperation has intensified since 2020. In 2025, Armenia’s parliament initiated a legislative process towards potential EU membership after a citizens’ initiative, though Pashinyan maintained that membership is just one possibility and would depend on the EU’s enlargement policy and the preferences of the Armenian people.
He emphasised the importance of reforms that align with EU standards, asserting that even if Armenia does not join the bloc, such reforms would still benefit the country.
Pashinyan’s pivot towards Europe has raised questions about Armenia’s longstanding ties with Russia, its primary security partner. However, he dismissed the notion that the government seeks to free Armenia from Moscow’s influence. Instead, he advocated for diversification, highlighting the importance of offering alternatives for both the population and various industries.
Despite Armenia’s intentions, Russia has warned that Yerevan may have to choose between greater EU integration and remaining a member of the Eurasian Economic Union. Pashinyan acknowledged the challenge of balancing these relationships but ruled out an immediate referendum on EU membership, stating that a formal application is needed first.
He also reiterated that Armenia’s aim is not to deteriorate relations with Russia, recognising that these ties have changed and will not revert to previous norms. Pashinyan expressed confidence in prospects for peace with Azerbaijan, noting that despite the lack of a formal treaty, a peace agreement was initialled in August 2025, and there have been no casualties along the border for over two years.
In summary, Pashinyan’s broader strategy focuses on expanding Armenia’s diplomatic options while working towards peace with its neighbours and solidifying ties with both the EU and Russia.
