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Armenia heads to polls amid Russian pressure and choice between Europe and Russia

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Armenia is at a crossroads of regional politics, with Moscow banning imports of its cognac to press the country away from a European‑aligned trajectory, while the government seeks closer ties to the EU and the United States. In Yerevan, rapid urban growth and unfinished high‑rises illustrate the country’s swift post‑Soviet economic rise, even as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan faces opposition from pro‑Russian factions. As elections loom, Armenia’s strategic South Caucasus location continues to make it a focal point for competing geopolitical interests.

    1. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, of Armenia, a great friend and Leader, is making his Country strong, wealthy, and very secure.
    1. Being in a customs union with the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union is impossible.
    2. We all see what is happening with Ukraine now ... How did it all begin? With Ukraine's attempt to join the EU.
    1. The European Union is our main partner in democratic reform implementation and we will continue that path.
    2. Our country is more sovereign, independent and secure than ever! Glory to the martyrs, long live the Republic of Armenia!
    3. Let's give a round of applause to the party that brought peace!
    1. I think Armenians expect, first of all, a peaceful, independent and prosperous Armenia from this election, as we have today.
    1. We have seen a sharp intensification of the dragging — a rather strong dragging — of Armenia toward the European Union and NATO structures.
    1. By extending export restrictions on Armenian products, Moscow is weaponizing economic relations for political pressure. We know this playbook all too well.
    1. The Armenian people will make the right choice and Armenia will finally have a legitimate government.
    2. Russia has been and will remain our strategic partner and principal economic partner.
    1. Not because the prime minister is still popular – he isn't – but because Armenia's opposition is even less competent or impressive and too associated with Russia.
    2. Pashinyan's Civil Contract party is likely to win the elections more or less by default.
    3. So Moscow is trying to force Pashinyan to make a choice – for Russia.
    4. Moscow feels it is losing Armenia, that the country has got a bit too big for its boots.
Armenia heads to polls amid Russian pressure and choice between Europe and Russia