Russia is continuing to increase pressure on Armenia ahead of parliamentary elections. Russia’s agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor has decided to restrict imports of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, greens and strawberries from Armenia starting May 30 until an appropriate mechanism for ensuring the safety of shipped products is developed. The restrictions apply both to products originating in Armenia and those supplied through the country.
Rosselkhoznadzor justified its decision by citing an increasing number of violations in supplies of Armenian fruit and vegetable products.
Earlier, Russia had already restricted imports from Armenia of flowers, Jermuk mineral water, as well as brandy and wine from three Armenian producers.
Yesterday, reports emerged about a letter from Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilyov warning Yerevan that Moscow was prepared to terminate agreements on supplies of gas, petroleum products and diamonds if Armenia joins the European Union.
