Armenia Will Be Forced to Close Its Border with Russia: Threats from Moscow

If Armenia chooses the European Union (EU) development path, many families will lose contact with each other. This was stated by Viktor Vodolatskin, the first deputy chairman of the State Duma's Committee on CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration, and Relations with Compatriots, in an interview with Lenta.ru.

The deputy noted that a "soft separation" from Armenia would have almost no negative aspects for Russia. He recalled that Russia supplies energy resources to Armenia at preferential prices, which harms the Russian economy. Additionally, according to Vodolatskin, there are food groups that are also provided to the "brotherly republic" at preferential rates, ensuring additional income for local entrepreneurs.

"Our only loss is that during our joint century-long history, 50 percent of Armenians live in Russian territory. The Armenian people are brotherly to us. It is important for the Russian and Armenian peoples to maintain friendly relations, as this means constant contact, ongoing ties, and free movement," the parliamentarian said.

Vodolatskin added that if Armenia joins the EU, it will be forced to close its border with Russia, making many families lose contact with one another. At the same time, he expressed hope that there are still many politicians in the country who will remain committed to the idea of statehood and will not allow a rupture in relations with Russia.

The Moskovsky Komsomolets reports that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's statements during his pre-election campaign have generated significant public resonance.