Peskov: Armenia’s discounted gas comes at Russia’s expense

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has said that Armenia’s participation in preferential energy arrangements is effectively financed by Russia, as tensions grow over Yerevan’s foreign policy orientation and its engagement with the European Union.

Speaking ahead of upcoming Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) meetings, Peskov said the agenda would be “difficult” due to what he described as a complex situation involving Armenia.

“Tomorrow evening, the part will begin that relates more to Friday, to the EAEU summit. The agenda is not easy. In addition to integration issues, there is a difficult situation with Armenia,” he told TASS.

Peskov argued that Armenia’s EU integration aspirations are fundamentally incompatible with its participation in the EAEU, noting that domestic legislation in Armenia is increasingly oriented toward European integration.

He added that this issue would be a key topic of discussion within the bloc.

“Of course, this will be a subject for discussion, without a doubt,” he said.

The Kremlin spokesperson also stressed Russia’s continued emphasis on Eurasian integration, arguing that Armenia benefits economically from its membership, including GDP growth.

At the same time, he questioned the benefits of closer EU alignment, saying this was a decision for Armenia to evaluate independently.

Peskov further highlighted Russia’s energy relationship with Armenia, describing discounted gas supplies as a “contribution” from Moscow.

“Any discount always comes at someone’s expense. The discount that Armenians receive is always at Russia’s expense. This is our contribution to the development of Armenia,” he said.

He contrasted this with European energy markets, arguing that gas is sold at significantly higher prices in Europe without similar subsidised arrangements.