Kathrine Frich
Relations between Russia and Armenia have shown signs of strain in recent months.
What was once a close alliance now appears to be entering a more uncertain phase.
Recent developments suggest growing friction following high-level talks.
Trade restrictions
Russian authorities have moved to block certain Armenian imports, including the popular “Djermuk” mineral water.
According to RBC quoted by Digi24, regulators said the decision was taken “due to the need to take urgent measures to prevent possible harmful effects on the life and health of citizens of the Russian Federation.”
Officials claimed the product contained excessive levels of certain substances that “does not correspond to the information on the label and violates the requirements of the UEEA technical regulations.”
More than 300,000 bottles were reportedly withdrawn from circulation.
Wider measures
The move follows earlier action against Armenian alcohol imports.
Russian regulators suspended the operations of a company importing Armenian cognac, citing issues with composition and production standards.
Authorities said the product “does not correspond to the declared name” and failed to meet regulatory requirements.
The restrictions come shortly after a meeting between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
During the talks, Pashinyan emphasized Armenia’s political system, saying: “You know, Armenia is a democratic country.”
He added: “In our country, there are practically always political processes, and this is already something normal for us. In our country, social networks, for example, are 100% free. There are no restrictions, absolutely none.”
Shifting alliances
Pashinyan also confirmed Armenia’s closer engagement with the European Union and noted that the country had frozen its participation in the Russia-led CSTO alliance.
These positions have raised concerns in Moscow about Yerevan’s geopolitical direction.
Russian officials have since warned Armenia about the potential consequences of moving closer to the EU.
Deputy Security Council Secretary Alexei Shevtsov said Armenia could not remain in both economic blocs simultaneously.
“In conclusion, joining the EU will cost Armenia, according to the most modest and conservative estimates, about 23% of GDP, and the massive reduction in the labor market and rising inflation will lead to a significant decline in the standard of living. Domestic consumption will fall by more than 20%,” he said.
The developments point to a growing divide between the two countries as their political priorities diverge.
Sources: RBC, Digi24
