Armenia Does Not Sign Declaration Condemning Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine Despite Push for Closer EU Ties

Armenia and Azerbaijan were among eight countries that did not sign a European security declaration condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine at the European Political Community summit in Dublin on November 12.

The declaration, endorsed by 39 countries, calls for continued support for Ukraine and stronger security guarantees to prevent further Russian aggression.

The other countries that did not sign were Turkey, Serbia, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and Switzerland. Bulgaria was the only European Union member state that did not join the declaration. Georgia, meanwhile, was among the signatories.

The document, titled “Declaration on Key Principles of European Security,” was prepared at France’s initiative and published by the French presidency on November 12.

It reaffirms support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The signatories also pledged to maintain their support for Kyiv despite Russian efforts to weaken European unity.

The declaration states that Ukraine must be involved in any negotiations over its future and that European countries must have a role in decisions affecting their own security.

It also defends the right of countries to choose their security alliances and calls for respect for national borders and sovereignty.

The French initiative comes as the United States mediates peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. According to Reuters, French President Emmanuel Macron has insisted that Europe must be included in negotiations affecting the continent’s security.

Armenia’s absence from the declaration comes as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s government pursues closer ties with the European Union while remaining a member of the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union.

Despite not signing the declaration on Ukraine, Armenia received support from European leaders in a separate statement issued during the Dublin summit.

Following a November 12 meeting with Pashinyan, representatives of nine European countries and EU leaders reaffirmed their support for Armenia’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

They also accused Russia of increasing political and economic pressure on Armenia.

The Armenian government has not provided an explanation in the information available for this report for its decision not to join the declaration condemning Russia.

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