Hundreds of Armenian trucks refused entry into Russia

Hundreds of trucks carrying Armenian agricultural products are being sent back from Russia, Armenian lawmaker Garnik Danielyan said on Facebook.

According to Danielyan, vehicles loaded with plums, peaches, and grapes are being turned away at the Upper Lars border checkpoint, Caliber.Az reports.

Drivers say Russian border authorities cited “phytosanitary issues” as the reason for refusal.

Danielyan added that other goods, including construction materials, are also subject to increased inspections.

The Upper Lars checkpoint, the only land route connecting Armenia to Russia via Georgia, is critical for Armenian trade, with approximately 150 Armenian trucks passing through daily. Similar incidents have occurred in the past, often tied to phytosanitary concerns or political tensions.

The timing of the border restrictions coincides with Armenia’s pivot away from Russian influence, including its suspension of participation in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and growing ties with the EU and US.

By Khagan Isayev