Moscow: Armenia has been urged to conduct a nationwide referendum to decide whether to seek membership in the European Union (EU) or remain in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), as announced in a joint statement by the Russian President and leaders from Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. This call comes amid Armenia's growing interest in closer integration with the EU.

According to Anadolu Agency, the joint statement was released by the Kremlin, highlighting the unified stance of Vladimir Putin, Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, and Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan. The leaders emphasized the importance of a referendum in Armenia to address its geopolitical orientation, which has been a topic of increasing tension within the Moscow-led economic bloc.

The statement also expressed concerns about the potential economic risks for EAEU member states if Armenia pursues EU accession. To address these concerns, a report detailing the consequences of Armenia's possible withdrawal from the EAEU is expected in December 2026.

The issue has gained prominence as Armenia has engaged more intensively with the EU, including the adoption of legislation aimed at eventual EU accession. Russian officials have consistently stated that simultaneous membership in both the EU and EAEU is not feasible. However, Armenian authorities have expressed their intention to maintain cooperation within the EAEU while expanding their ties with Europe.