Yerevan should ask the Armenian people about their choice of integration path — EU or EAEU: Mikhail Galuzin

Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia, shared Moscow’s position on the TRIPP project and Armenia’s European integration in an interview with RTVI. According to him, the TRIPP route passes through territory guarded by Russian border troops, meaning Russia’s and the EAEU’s views must be taken into account. Galuzin noted that Armenian railways are operated by South Caucasus Railway— a subsidiary of Russian Railways — and that transit through Armenia must comply with EAEU standards. The diplomat also emphasized that the “Trump route” is unlikely to win Iran’s approval and probably does not suit China either.

The Deputy Foreign Minister paid particular attention to Armenia’s position within the EAEU. He stated that it is unacceptable for union members that Yerevan enshrines in legislation the intention to join the EU while continuing to enjoy the benefits of EAEU membership. Under Armenian law, joining supranational structures requires a referendum, and the leaders of Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Belarus have already called for one to be held as soon as possible. However, Moscow “does not quite understand” why the Armenian leadership is delaying this step.

Galuzin recalled that in April of last year, Armenia passed the Law “On Initiating the Process of Accession to the European Union.” In his view, this constitutes direct confirmation that European integration has begun, even if a formal application has not yet been submitted.

“The very fact of the law’s adoption and the practical steps toward alignment with the EU are of fundamental importance,” the diplomat emphasized.

Moscow expects clarity from Armenia on its choice of integration path: either continued participation in the EAEU or movement toward the EU. In Russia’s view, the matter should be resolved through a referendum in order to determine the public’s position and eliminate uncertainty.