Top EU official visits Armenia and offers economic support to help counter Russian pressure
Summary
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Armenia and announced an 18-million euro aid package and the removal of import taxes on most Armenian farm products. This support aims to help Armenia strengthen its economy and reduce reliance on Russia amid tensions caused by Russia’s trade sanctions and political pressure.Key Facts
- The EU will give Armenia 18 million euros as part of a total 52-million euro support package.
- Import taxes on nearly 80% of Armenian farm products going to the EU will be removed.
- Armenia faces economic pressure from Russia, including trade bans on flowers, brandy, wine, and fruits.
- Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s party recently won a parliamentary election, seen as a vote on the country’s alignment between Russia and the EU.
- Russia has a military base in Armenia and has warned of harsh consequences if Armenia continues to shift toward the West.
- The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Karabakh region has worsened relations between Armenia and Russia.
- In 2025, President Donald Trump helped broker a deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan to end their conflict and create a new transit corridor.
- Von der Leyen also visited Azerbaijan, announcing a 200-million euro package to fund transport, energy, and digital projects in the South Caucasus region.
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