Putin invites Armenian PM to Moscow, disagrees on EAEU exit

On September 1, 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin invited Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to Moscow for talks on specific issues, amid disagreements over Armenia's potential exit from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Putin also signaled support for Armenia's jailed former president Robert Kocharyan ahead of the talks, and reportedly made Pashinyan an offer. The two leaders have repeatedly discussed Armenia's intention to join the EU, a move Putin opposes. The meeting underscores strained relations between the two countries over Armenia's geopolitical direction.