Putin: Armenia EU Membership Referendum Would Be 'Logical'

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Saturday that it would be "entirely logical" for Armenia to conduct a referendum on European Union membership. The comment came after the former Soviet republic, a long-time Moscow ally, hosted a European summit for the first time.

Armenia, which froze its membership in the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in 2024, has expressed interest in joining the EU. Yerevan's move angered the Kremlin, as Moscow had failed to intervene during Armenia's conflict with Azerbaijan.

Responding to a question about Armenia's European aspirations, Putin said, according to AFP: "It would be entirely logical to hold a referendum and ask Armenian citizens about their choice. Based on that, we will also make our choice."

The Russian leader added: "Thus, we will take a path of a gentle, civilized, and mutually beneficial separation."

Putin drew a parallel with Ukraine, stating: "We are all going through what is happening in Ukraine now. But how did it all start? With Ukraine's attempt to join the European Union."

On Monday, Armenia hosted dozens of leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, for a summit of the European Political Community. A separate summit between the EU and Armenia followed in the capital Yerevan on Tuesday.

After those meetings, Russia summoned the Armenian ambassador to protest the hosting of Zelensky.