European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced a new European Union support package for Armenia in response to what she described as Russia’s “economic coercion” through trade restrictions targeting Armenian exports, the European Commission informs.
In a phone conversation with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Thursday, von der Leyen strongly criticized Moscow’s recent measures, including restrictions on Armenian agricultural products and flower exports.
“By extending export restrictions on Armenian products, Moscow is weaponizing economic relations for political pressure,” von der Leyen said, adding that the EU has seen similar tactics before and would stand firmly by Armenia.
According to the European Commission President, the support package will include more than €50 million in immediate financial assistance, with additional measures planned in the coming months.
The package will also focus on facilitating trade for Armenian products, particularly agri-food exports, and providing practical support to sectors affected by Russian restrictions. Von der Leyen specifically highlighted Armenia’s flower industry, which has recently faced import restrictions from Russia over what she described as questionable allegations.
As part of efforts to diversify export markets, a shipment of 10,000 Armenian flowers is expected to arrive in Latvia on Friday, with further deliveries planned.
The two leaders also discussed strengthening economic ties between Armenia and the European Union following commitments made during the recent EU-Armenia Summit in Yerevan.
Von der Leyen noted that support provided under the EU’s Resilience and Growth Plan since 2024 has already assisted 7,000 Armenian businesses and contributed to the creation of more than 20,000 jobs.
Looking ahead, the European Commission President reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to implementing the ambitious Connectivity Partnership agreed with Armenia. She welcomed the recent reopening of trade routes with Türkiye, including railway connections through Georgia and Türkiye, describing the development as an important step toward enhancing regional connectivity.
“Armenia has the potential to become a strategic hub connecting Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia,” von der Leyen said, stressing that the EU is prepared to support infrastructure projects and border crossing points as regional transport links reopen.
The two sides also agreed to establish a joint EU-Armenia Task Force to coordinate the implementation of ongoing initiatives and future cooperation measures.
Further discussions on connectivity and economic cooperation are expected at the EU-Armenia Connectivity Platform Ministerial meeting scheduled for June 23.
