Hraparak daily of Armenia writes as follows, in particular: After the last [Armenian PM Nikol] Pashinyan-[Russian President Vladimir] Putin phone conversation, according to rumors circulating in the backstage of the [Armenian] authorities, Pashinyan’s Western patrons have urged him not to panic, not to be afraid of Putin’s threats or instructions to face a choice.

Let us recall that the Kremlin’s statement on the well-known phone conversation was significantly different from the one disseminated by Pashinyan’s cabinet: the Russians once again were urging [Pashinyan] to choose between the EU and the EAEU; moreover, to hold a possible quick referendum on this matter. European partners have advised Pashinyan to delay a little bit more, since the developments on the Russian-Ukrainian front have allegedly weakened the foundations of the RF [i.e. the Russian Federation], and soon Moscow itself will take a step back.

However, according to our [Armenian] authorities’ sources, they have learned from Russia through diplomatic channels that in the near future the RF will apply a tougher mechanism towards Armenia, so as not to leave them any room for maneuver.