A key Russian ally has strengthened its ties with the European Union in a humiliating blow for the Kremlin. Armenia has traditionally been a loyal Russian partner, sharing a long history with its larger neighbour.

Both were member states of the Soviet Union and since its break up had continued to cement diplomatic, political and security ties. Moscow considers Armenia as being part of its historical area of influence and a bulwark against creeping Western infiltration of the post-Soviet space in the South Caucasus. However, relations between the allies deteriorated sharply after Russia failed to provide military support for Yerevan in its long-running dispute with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh.

Azeri forces launched a military offensive in September 2023, reclaiming the territory in just 24 hours.

Armenia’s government was furious with the Kremlin, as Russian peacekeepers failed to intervene and support their ally.

Since then Yerevan has stepped up its efforts to forge closer ties with the European Union, as it turns its back on Putin’s Russia.

In a move that is set to enrage the Kremlin tyrant, Armenia signed a new deal with Brussels, that will result in much closer cooperation.

The so-called Strategic Agenda for the EU-Armenia Partnership was signed following a meeting on Tuesday between Kaja Kallas and the Armenian Foreign Minister.

The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy took to her X social media account to announce the historic deal. “Today, we adopted a new Strategic Agenda for the EU-Armenia Partnership,” she said.

“This is a shared ambition to work closer together on many areas – from the rule of law, economy, but also cooperation on visa liberalisation and security.

“I am also pleased to announce €15 million towards sustaining peace and a more resilient Armenia.”

Marta Kos – the EU Commissioner for Enlargement – added: “There is a once in a generation opportunity to build peace in the South Caucasus. Stability in the region is key to diversify our trade.”