Brussels: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday announced a support package for Armenia after Russia expanded restrictions on agricultural imports from the country. "We are preparing an EU support package. It includes immediate financial assistance, worth over 50 million euro ($58 million). And more will come," von der Leyen said in a written statement. The announcement followed a conversation with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

According to Anadolu Agency, von der Leyen described Russia's actions as "economic coercion" and deemed them unacceptable. She criticized Moscow for using export restrictions on Armenian products as a political tool. In response, the EU plans to ease trade for certain Armenian products and support affected industries, including the flower sector. A shipment of 10,000 flowers is scheduled to arrive in Latvia soon, with more shipments planned.

Von der Leyen emphasized the EU's commitment to strengthening business ties, referencing promises made at the recent summit in Yerevan. The EU is looking to enhance connectivity, highlighted by the reopening of trade routes with Turkey, including a railway link through Georgia and Turkey. Both sides have also agreed to form a joint EU-Armenia task force to ensure effective cooperation.

Russia's agricultural watchdog, Rosselkhoznadzor, expanded import restrictions on Armenian agricultural products citing increased violations. The Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision announced a ban on imports of Armenian grapes, cherries, sweet cherries, and apricots.