Russia warned Armenia that it will suspend oil and gas deliveries on preferential terms if the government in Yerevan continues to move closer to the EU.

Russia sent Armenia a letter announcing the suspension of oil and gas deliveries under preferential conditions if the government in Yerevan continues to integrate into the European Union. The letter, signed by Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsiviliov, warns that in the event of a rapprochement with the EU, Russia will denounce the 2013 agreement on cooperation in the field of gas supply and petroleum products.

Although the Armenian Ministry of Territorial Administration denied receiving the document, the Russian newspaper Kommersant confirmed its contents. Russian President Vladimir Putin previously suggested that Armenia could pay a significantly higher price for gas, similar to that of Europeans, if it distances itself from Russia.

In an attempt to reduce dependence on Moscow, Armenia has diversified its energy sources, increasing imports from Romania, Egypt, and Azerbaijan. Relations between Armenia and Russia have deteriorated since Nikol Pashinyan, a pro-Western politician, became prime minister in 2018.

Armenia has also adopted a law to begin the process of joining the EU, thus strengthening its distancing from Russia. Recently, the US and Armenia signed a strategic partnership agreement, which includes initiatives to connect the region.