The Armenian government has approved a draft law titled "On Initiating the Process of Armenia’s Accession to the European Union."

Axar.az interviewed Russian political analyst Yevgeny Mikhailov in this regard.

- Armenia is a full member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Why is Armenia attempting to join an organization that contradicts the EAEU?

- Let’s not confuse reality with fantasy. The idea that Armenians want to join the European Union is ridiculous. We remember how long Turkiye, with its strong economy, tried to join the EU and how many promises were made. What Ukraine wanted and what it received. Georgia, too, showed aspirations but achieved nothing. The same will happen with Armenia. This is just a regular attempt to draw Armenia into the opposing bloc. Yerevan is trying to sit on multiple chairs. In the EAEU, it receives considerable benefits and maintains relations with Russia. Joining the EU is an entirely different tactic, but it’s impossible—just empty promises. Yerevan will continue to enjoy the benefits of the EAEU for as long as possible. While Russia seeks to keep Armenia within the contours of its national interests, there will be no drastic changes. Promises can last 300 years. Today, Pashinyan is here; tomorrow, he won’t be. Their desires will change accordingly. The world is changing. After Trump returns, everything will become clearer, and we will see a more genuine alignment of relations. Only then can we draw conclusions.

- What new privileges is Armenia seeking without having borders with EU countries?

-The Armenian political elite seeks privileges and guarantees for their safety in case they are forced to flee the country. These reforms and attempts to join the EU will lead to a catastrophe for the Armenian state. No matter how cunningly they try to balance on multiple fronts, all the promises from the West will lead to the same outcome. Building strong relationships with neighbors is key. Take Salome Zourabichvili as an example—she tried to destabilize Georgia for the West's benefit but failed. At least she secured her personal safety and a position at an American university. Similarly, Armenian politicians prioritize their own wealth and interests over the Armenian people.

- How might this affect relations with Russia?

-Armenia has made numerous negative statements and moves towards Russia, yet nothing has fundamentally changed. Russia, as the "older brother," continues to monitor this "small quasi-state" and strives to maintain relations. I think this will continue until Russia’s patience runs out. We are tolerating Armenia’s whims for now, but how long that will last is unclear. In any case, Moscow is focused on larger global issues than Armenia’s EU aspirations.Once again, this is pure fantasy. Armenia will remain under Russia’s influence, no matter what.