DISINFO: EUMA is aimed at intelligence gathering and spreading anti-Azerbaijani propaganda
SUMMARY
Although both the European Union and Armenia emphasise that the mission [EUMA] is civilian, located exclusively on Armenian territory and contributes to establishing peace in the region, Moscow indicates that European observers are largely engaged in intelligence gathering in the region.
Contrary to statements from Brussels about establishing stability in the region and trust between Azerbaijan and Armenia, the mission is used as a tool of 'anti-Azerbaijani propaganda' and 'binocular diplomacy.'
RESPONSE
Recurring disinformation narrative by pro-Kremlin outlets attempting to discredit the EU mission in Armenia, promote the idea that the mission is involved in spying operations and propaganda against Azerbaijan.
The EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA) is a civilian mission that observes and reports on the security situation on the ground, contributes to the security of the people in conflict-affected areas in Armenia, and builds confidence on the ground. It has been fully transparent about its plans to operate from six hubs.
Through its presence, EUMA also contributes to ensuring an environment conducive to the normalisation efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan supported by the EU.
The mission was launched in Armenia in response to a request by Armenia. EUMA conducts routine patrolling and reports on the situation, which strengthens the EU’s understanding of the situation on the ground.
The decision to deploy the EU monitors on the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan was made after the September 2022 escalation. The EU has called for and helped a normalisation process. The EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA) represents a new phase in the EU’s engagement in the South Caucasus.
European diplomats and officials often visit EU mission hubs, interact with observers, and sometimes patrol with them along the border. This is done to support the mission and observers.
See similar cases in our database targeting the EU mission in Armenia: EU observers in Armenia are employees of Western intelligence services; The purpose of EU monitors in Armenia is to spy on Russian troops; EU mission in Armenia to monitor Russian and Iranian troops; Spying on Iran may be the main purpose of the EU monitors in Iran.