The Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, stated that a referendum on joining the EU is not necessary, emphasizing that Armenia has not officially submitted its application.

Vladimir Putin asked Armenia to organize a referendum 'as soon as possible' to decide between joining the European Union and remaining in the Eurasian Economic Union, led by Russia. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan responded that such a referendum would be 'illogical', as the choice between the two blocs is not inevitable as long as Armenia has not officially submitted its application for EU membership. These statements come ahead of the elections in Armenia, which are crucial for Pashinyan, who is seeking to balance relations with Russia and the West. Moscow has summoned the ambassador from Armenia for consultations, in the context of strengthening the Yerevan-EU ties. Pashinyan mentioned that relations with Russia are in transformation, and Armenia is seeking new ways of collaboration. Armenia has also suspended its participation in a security pact with Russia and expressed its intention to submit its application for EU membership.