Russia warns Armenia against EU path, threatens with 'Ukraine scenario'

The Kremlin chief claimed that such a policy could lead to a scenario similar to the events in Ukraine in 2014, referring to Russia's armed invasion.

Putin believes Armenia should take Moscow's position on European integration into account, which is why he considers holding a referendum appropriate. The Kremlin leader also said such a decision would be right for both Armenian citizens and Russia, which he called Armenia's main economic partner.

"In my opinion, it would be right both toward the people and citizens of Armenia and toward us, as the main economic partner, to determine this as soon as possible, for example by holding a referendum," the Russian president said.

At the same time, he added that while it is "not our business," it would still be logical to hold a referendum and ask Armenian citizens what choice they want to make.

"Accordingly, we would draw the necessary conclusions and proceed along the path of a soft, civilized, and mutually beneficial separation," Putin noted.

At the same time, he warned of possible consequences if events unfolded differently, drawing a parallel to Ukraine.

"We are now living through everything that is happening on the Ukrainian track. And where did it begin? With Ukraine joining or attempting to join the EU," Putin said, adding that this later led to "the coup d’état, the Crimea story, the position of southeastern Ukraine and military actions."

Previously, reports emerged that Armenia officially confirmed earlier this week that it is not Russia's ally in the war against Ukraine and continues to provide humanitarian support to Kyiv.

Earlier, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also boasted about the achievements of Armenian democracy during a meeting with Putin. In particular, he stressed that there are no political prisoners in Armenia and that social media remains completely free.