Poll shows pro-Western Pashinyan on track for election victory in Armenia
Photo: Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan (Getty Images)
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's party could secure a commanding majority in Armenia's new parliament. At the same time, Moscow is reacting increasingly harshly to Yerevan's efforts to deepen ties with the European Union, according to Euronews.
According to the latest poll conducted by Breavis ahead of the June 7 parliamentary election, Pashinyan's Civil Contract party could win nearly 65% of the vote among voters who have already made up their minds.
The survey, conducted among 1,551 respondents, shows the ruling party holding a significant lead over the opposition. No other party is projected to receive more than 12% support, according to the pollsters.
If next Sunday's vote confirms the survey's projections, Pashinyan will retain control of parliament and receive a renewed mandate to continue Armenia's course toward closer ties with the West.
It could also strengthen the government's position in implementing the peace agreement with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, signed last year with US mediation.
The poll also indicates growing support for Armenia's pro-European course after decades of close cooperation with Russia.
Moscow steps up pressure on Yerevan
Against this backdrop, Russia continues to react sharply to Armenia's foreign policy direction. In recent weeks, Moscow has imposed new trade restrictions on Armenian products and warned of consequences over Yerevan's plans to accelerate integration with the European Union.
In addition, Russia recalled its ambassador to Armenia, Sergey Kopyrkin, for consultations. The Russian Foreign Ministry said the decision was linked to steps taken by the Armenian government toward closer ties with the EU.
Leaders of the Eurasian Economic Union have also warned Yerevan about what they see as the risks of the country's further movement toward EU membership.
Putin brings up Ukraine again
During the Eurasian Economic Union summit in Astana, Russian President Vladimir Putin once again drew parallels between Armenia and Ukraine. According to him, the "Ukrainian crisis" allegedly began after Kyiv sought to join the European Union.
Tensions also increased after US President Donald Trump expressed his "full and unconditional support" for Nikol Pashinyan, calling him "a great friend and leader."
In addition, Reuters, citing Western intelligence sources, reported possible Russian attempts to influence the election in favor of pro-Russian forces. Moscow has denied the allegations.
At the same time, Western officials have expressed concern about Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's security
