News in Brief: Economic Growth Record in Armenia, New Sanctions, and Nuclear Tensions

• The Minister of Economy announced that the target of an average economic growth of 7% set in the 2021-2026 program has been exceeded, reaching 7.9%.

• The U.S. President has extended sanctions against Russia, in place since 2014, for another year. This decision comes amid negotiations regarding Ukraine.

• EU countries have failed to agree on the 20th package of sanctions against Russia. Discussions are likely to continue in the coming days.

• Iran has stated that there is no military solution to its nuclear program. It was noted that the U.S. has not demanded a complete halt to uranium enrichment.

• The Biden administration is considering including uranium enrichment in a nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia. Experts have expressed concerns regarding potential military risks.

• The European Commission has called on the EU defense industry to increase production by up to 50 times, highlighting the need for long-term and sustainable demand.

• In the Irkutsk region, a vehicle has fallen through the ice of Lake Baikal, resulting in casualties and missing persons. Law enforcement has initiated a criminal case.

• Arthur Davtyan will not participate in the World Cup phase due to an injury, as announced by the gymnastics federation.

• The inter-state and republican roads in Armenia are open. The Vardenyats Pass is difficult to navigate for vehicles with trailers.