Asger Risom
Erevan’s historic decision signals a deepening shift toward the West as tensions rise between Russia and the U.S.
Others are reading now
In a landmark move with major geopolitical implications, Armenia’s parliament voted Wednesday to begin the process of joining the European Union, signaling a dramatic pivot away from its longstanding alliance with Russia.
As reported by Digi24, 64 lawmakers supported the motion, with just 7 opposed—all members of the ruling party. The vote instructs the Armenian government to officially launch its candidacy for EU membership, a path that could redraw regional alliances as the U.S. and Russia battle for influence across Eurasia.
A Former Ally Turns West
Armenia’s break from Moscow has accelerated since the 2023 Azerbaijani offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh, when Russian peacekeepers failed to intervene. The offensive led to the loss of the entire Armenian-controlled region and the exodus of more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians.
In the aftermath, Erevan openly distanced itself from the Kremlin. In January 2024, Armenia ratified its accession to the International Criminal Court—despite warnings from Moscow—thereby obligating it to arrest Vladimir Putin if he sets foot on Armenian soil. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan later declared Armenia’s practical withdrawal from the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
Also read
Realignment Amid U.S.-Russia Rivalry
The vote in Erevan comes as U.S.-Russia tensions remain high, with both nations vying for influence from Eastern Europe to the South Caucasus. Armenia has increasingly leaned toward the U.S. and NATO allies, hosting joint military exercises with American troops and opening channels for security cooperation.
At the same time, Russia’s credibility as a regional guarantor has eroded—not only in Armenia but across other post-Soviet states observing Moscow’s waning influence and Washington’s renewed engagement.
Though Armenia’s EU path is just beginning, the symbolic message is clear: a historic ally of Moscow is turning its gaze westward. The long-standing Eurasian balance of power is shifting—and fast.
