Overchuk stated Russia's concerns about Armenia's deepening European integration

The Russian Federation fears the strengthening of Armenia's European integration, as this may affect the decision of the Transcaucasian republic to close its airspace to Russian aircraft, as was done by European countries earlier. This was announced on June 20 by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk during a speech at the Russia-Armenia business dialogue at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF-2025).

"The European Union has closed the skies for the passage of Russian aircraft. Will Armenia close the sky too? If you join the European Union, then yes, because you will be told in Brussels to close the sky, and you will close the sky, and you will have no choice," said the Deputy Prime Minister, quoted by TASS.

Overchuk stressed that such restrictions would affect a significant number of flights. In addition, the cargo transportation system may be disrupted. According to the Deputy Prime Minister, "it is impossible not to pay attention to this."

Changing their orientation: why Armenia joined the European Union

Yerevan is preparing to adopt a law on EU accession

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on June 13 that the republic would not be able to be a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) at the same time and the European Union (EU). He noted that the decision should be made by the citizens of the country, but under the leadership of the government and parliament. However, until then, the government will continue to implement reforms aimed at bringing it closer to EU standards.