President of Armenia: It's still early

President Vladimir Putin has urged Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to hold a referendum on Armenia’s future membership in the European Union, but Pashinyan has responded that it is too early. The request comes amid ongoing diplomatic discussions between Moscow and Brussels over Armenia's geopolitical orientation. During a phone call on Tuesday, Putin reiterated his support for a joint statement issued on May 29 by leaders of Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. The statement called on Armenia to organize a referendum as soon as possible to determine whether the country should join the EU or remain within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which is led by Russia. The EAEU includes Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Pashinyan rejected the idea, stating that such a referendum would make sense only once Armenia becomes a real candidate for EU membership. In a statement released by the office of the Armenian prime minister, he argued that holding a referendum is practical only after Armenia formally applies for EU membership and the issue gains clear substance. “The conduct of a referendum in practice is possible only after Armenia submits an official application for EU membership and when this question receives a concrete content,” the statement said. Currently, Armenia has not officially requested EU membership nor holds the status of a candidate country. It remains a full member of the EAEU alongside Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Moscow argues that joining both unions simultaneously is impractical due to conflicting customs and trade rules, and therefore urges Armenia to choose one path clearly. At the same time, Pashinyan’s government continues to seek deeper cooperation within the EAEU while also strengthening ties with the EU. This dual approach reflects the complex balancing act Armenia faces between its traditional reliance on Russian influence and growing aspirations for closer integration with Western institutions. The conversation between Pashinyan and Putin also touched on economic issues, particularly concerns regarding trade restrictions. Pashinyan noted that limitations on exporting Armenian goods to the Russian market were inconsistent with the rules of the EAEU and the legal framework governing relations between Armenia and Russia. He requested measures to resolve these issues. Pashinyan emphasized that his administration is ready to address all open questions through open, partner-based, and friendly dialogue. His remarks underscored the desire for continued collaboration despite the tensions arising from differing strategic priorities. As negotiations continue, the situation highlights the broader challenges faced by small nations caught between competing geopolitical blocs. With Armenia’s future direction remaining uncertain, the outcome of these discussions will likely shape its political and economic landscape for years to come. For now, the focus remains on resolving immediate trade disputes and clarifying the conditions under which a potential referendum could take place.