Putin tells Armenia to choose between the EU and the Eurasian Union

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Armenia should choose between the European Union and the Eurasian Economic Union. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian responded that the adoption last year of a law officially declaring Armenia's intention to apply to the EU made a referendum unnecessary. Pashinian also stated that it was premature to talk about Armenia leaving the Eurasian Economic Union. The tension arises in a context of Armenia's rapprochement with the European Union, while the country remains a member of the Russia-led organization.