European leaders have gathered in Yerevan for two summits, in a development that marks a significant turning point for Armenia, a country that has long been considered Russia's closest ally in the South Caucasus.

Over 30 European leaders, including the Prime Minister of Canada, are attending the European Political Community summit, followed by the first bilateral summit between the European Union and Armenia the following day. Key figures such as Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa are also attending the meeting.

Despite its rapprochement with Europe, Armenia remains strongly tied to Moscow, especially in the energy field. Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasized that the country is supplied with Russian gas at much lower prices compared to the European market, underlining Yerevan's economic dependence.

Armenia's change of course is closely linked to developments in 2023, when Azerbaijan regained control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region after a swift military operation. Over 100 ethnic Armenians were forced to flee, while Russia's response, despite the presence of peacekeeping forces, was limited.

This situation fueled frustration in Yerevan and increased interest in closer cooperation with the EU. In 2025, the Armenian parliament approved the launch of the process for membership in the European Union.

Meanwhile, the peace process with Azerbaijan has made strides. In 2025, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and President Ilham Aliyev signed a historic agreement at the White House, mediated by Donald Trump.

Armenia's rapprochement with the West has drawn strong reactions from Moscow. Putin has warned that EU membership is incompatible with participation in the Eurasian Economic Union.

At the same time, forms of pressure have also been reported, including a ban on Armenian imports and suspected cyberattacks. Experts speak of “hybrid threats” aimed at destabilizing the country ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections.

The EU has responded by approving a civilian mission to help Armenia tackle disinformation and cyberattacks, while aiming to deepen political and economic cooperation.

However, despite positive signals, there is still no clear deadline for Armenia's EU membership, nor strong security guarantees or alternatives to replacing Russian gas.

In this context, Armenia remains in a "fragile balance" between East and West, as it attempts to reshape its strategic orientation without completely severing historical ties with Moscow.