What do these developments mean for Iran’s immediate neighbourhood? And what implications could they have for post-election Armenia?

The former Co-Chair of the Armenian Assembly of America joins Voice of Yerevan to discuss the changing geopolitical landscape and what may lie ahead for the region.

According to the FT, the European Commission is drafting autonomous trade measures that would reduce tariffs on Armenian food and agricultural exports, helping producers affected by recent Russian bans. The proposed measures are expected to cover most of the approximately 20 product categories targeted by Moscow and could apply to exports worth around €420 million annually.

The initiative comes after Russia imposed restrictions on a range of Armenian goods, including flowers, fruit, vegetables, fish, mineral water, wine and brandy, ahead of Armenia’s June 7 parliamentary elections. EU officials cited by the FT believe the measures were intended to increase pressure on Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s pro-Western government.

“The Commission will propose autonomous trade measures to help more Armenian businesses access new market opportunities in the EU and support the country’s economy where it has been most affected,” European Commission spokesperson Olof Gill told the Financial Times.

The FT noted that the proposals are expected to be presented within weeks and will require approval from EU member states and the European Parliament.

The move follows an earlier EU support package worth more than €50 million aimed at helping Armenia cope with the economic impact of Russian trade restrictions. The EU has already facilitated alternative export routes for some Armenian products, including flowers.

However, analysts cited by the Financial Times cautioned that the measures may only partially offset Armenia’s dependence on the Russian market. Armenia remains a member of the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union, and logistical challenges associated with exporting goods from the landlocked country continue to pose difficulties.

The Financial Times said the initiative reflects Brussels’ broader effort to strengthen ties with Armenia as the country deepens cooperation with the European Union while relations with Moscow remain strained.

The signing comes amid growing Russian economic pressure, including export restrictions.

Former US President Biden’s special assistant Michael Carpenter sits down with VoY to discuss the broader implications

While many describe this as a geopolitical vote, the political forces themselves continue to reveal the reality of their public support.

Dr. Nerses Kopalyan joins Voice of Yerevan to break down the political landscape, public expectations and what these elections could mean for Armenia’s future.

As European Council President António Costa noted, this moment is historic not only because it is being held in the South Caucasus for the first time, but also because it places Armenia firmly at the heart of Europe.

Armenia is pursuing a balanced foreign policy, recalibrating its ties with Russia while advancing normalisation efforts with its neighbours.

Following the war, the country is entering a crucial phase of rebuilding its statehood on a pragmatic and forward-looking foundation.

On the eve of Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day, the message is clear:

➡️ Armenia is ready to move forward
➡️ The next step is Türkiye’s

Trust is built through actions — not statements.