In recent remarks, Yuri Ushakov, the Deputy Chief of the Presidential Administration of Russia, outlined upcoming diplomatic engagements that place Moscow at the center of regional discussions. He indicated that Moscow would host Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan for talks in St. Petersburg during two significant gatherings: an informal meeting of CIS leaders and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) summit. Ushakov noted his anticipation of Pashinyan’s visit to the northern city, a move seen as part of Russia’s broader effort to coordinate regional priorities within the post-Soviet space. These statements were reported by RIA News and echoed across additional outlets monitoring the development of coordination among CIS states. [Citation: RIA News]
During his briefing, Ushakov stressed that Armenia will participate in these meetings as the chairman of the EAEU, a role it assumed following a leadership transition in Moscow. He suggested that Pashinyan would symbolically hand over the EAEU flag from Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling Armenia’s presidency within the bloc as it assumes the responsibilities and privileges that accompany the role. The comment reflected ongoing discussions about leadership continuity and the scheduling of high-profile Summits that bring together the member states for strategic dialogue. [Citation: Official briefings]
On November 17, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin press secretary, confirmed that the Kremlin was planning a visit to St. Petersburg by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to participate in the regional gatherings. Peskov, however, cautioned that it remained unclear whether Pashinyan would attend both the EAEU and CIS meetings in St. Petersburg, underscoring the fluid nature of attendance for such multilateral events. [Citation: Kremlin press pool]
Earlier, on November 14, Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan conducted a press conference during which he warned Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko that he would not attend the CSTO summit. He emphasized, however, his hope that CSTO partners would understand his decision and continue to engage with Armenia in the security framework of the alliance. The messaging underscored ongoing discussions about Armenia’s participation in regional security forums and the balancing act between alliance commitments and national considerations. [Citation: Armenian press conference]
In response to Armenia’s stance, discussions have intensified among CSTO members about the implications of Armenia’s attendance at upcoming summits. Belarusian officials had previously reacted to Armenia’s absence at the CSTO gathering, highlighting the sensitivities surrounding collective security arrangements and the expectations placed on member states. Analysts note that these developments reflect a broader pattern of diplomacy in which cooperative leadership within the CIS and EAEU is shaped by evolving political timelines, regional security concerns, and the strategic priorities of Moscow. [Citation: regional analysis]