Russia has reportedly given Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan about a month to define the country’s foreign policy course. According to reports, Moscow expects Yerevan to make a clear choice between the European Union (EU) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
An article published in Hraparak states that if the Armenian government does not make a decision aligned with Moscow’s demands, Russia could reportedly move to a harsher second phase of pressure. Tightening migration policy against Armenian citizens working in Russia and mass deportations of Armenian labor migrants are highlighted as one possible scenario.
It is noted that the return of hundreds of thousands of Armenian citizens could lead to severe employment and socio-economic challenges in Armenia.
Another potential step is restricting air communication with Armenia, suspending or significantly reducing flights. This could decrease tourist inflow to Armenia and increase airfare prices. It is claimed that step-by-step pressure measures could later extend to other areas, including gas supplies to Armenia.
There has been no official confirmation or statement from the Russian side regarding these claims so far.
