Lavrov stated his inability to meet EU standards when joining the EAEU

It is technically impossible to adhere to the standards of the European Union (EU) while remaining a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). This was stated on January 20 by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at a press conference on the results of Russian diplomacy in 2025.

"It is obvious to anyone who is somehow familiar with the principles of functioning of the Eurasian Economic Union and the European Union that it is impossible to switch to the standards of the European Union while remaining a member of the Eurasian Economic Union <...> It's just technically impossible," he said.

The Minister recalled that he had previously discussed the issue of Armenia's cooperation with the EU and the EAEU not only with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, but also with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during his visit to Yerevan.

According to Lavrov, membership in both unions is incompatible not only because of differences in trade and investment norms, but also because of Brussels' persistent efforts to harmonize Armenia's regulatory framework with European standards.

The Russian Foreign Minister stressed that EU standards imply support for anti-Russian sanctions. Lavrov also noted that in December last year, a new strategic partnership agenda was signed between Armenia and the EU, which includes requirements for coordinating foreign policy, trade and economy, as well as visa liberalization.

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Earlier, on January 14, Pashinyan said that in order for Armenia to join the EU, it is necessary to meet its standards. According to the politician, Armenia's failure to comply with these conditions is simply a "waste of time and energy." Pashinyan also noted that the country cannot simultaneously be a member of the EU and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

In September 2025, Pashinyan admitted that Armenia might not get EU membership, even though it meets the standards of the association. According to him, when European standards are achieved, Armenia's membership in the European Union will no longer matter, as the country will be able to solve the problem of its own social and political standards.

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