Vladimir Putin added that the Ukrainian crisis began in a similar situation. If Armenia starts transitioning to European Union standards, integration with the country would «objectively have to be curtailed.» Armenian citizens would face standard migrant requirements if the country leaves the EAEU, while higher energy prices for Armenia could result in the loss of at least 14 percent of its GDP.

The Kremlin published a joint statement by EAEU leaders regarding Armenia’s plans to join the European Union.

It states that the leaders of Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus and Kyrgyzstan adopted the joint statement amid Armenia’s plans to deepen ties with the European Union.

The document says that preparations for EU accession pose «serious risks to the economic security» of EAEU member states.

«We share the position on the need to hold a nationwide referendum in the Republic of Armenia as soon as possible on accession to the European Union or continued membership in the Eurasian Economic Union,» the statement says.

In addition, EAEU members expect that by December a report will be presented on the possible consequences for Armenia should its participation in the Union be suspended.

It should be recalled that Yerevan and Washington signed a charter on comprehensive strategic partnership.

Earlier, Russian authorities sharply criticized Armenia’s leadership following an EU summit held in the country, during which several documents strengthening ties with Europe were signed. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan was accused of «Russophobia» over contacts with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the European Union was drawing Yerevan into an «anti-Russian orbit.»

For his part, Pashinyan, speaking during the election campaign, said that the slogan

«death or freedom,» which guided the country after gaining independence, should be changed to «a state of freedom.»

In response, Russia imposed a temporary ban on imports of flowers, mineral water and brandy from Armenia. Vegetables and fruits have now been added to the list.

It also became known that Russia may suspend or unilaterally terminate agreements on supplies of gas, petroleum products and rough diamonds to Armenia if Yerevan continues its course toward closer ties with the European Union.

Later, starting May 30, Russia’s agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor restricted imports of fruit and vegetable products from Armenia. The decision affects fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, greens and strawberries originating from and shipped from Armenia.