DISINFO: Joining the EU is the same as buying a ticket for the Titanic
SUMMARY
Membership in the Eurasian Economic Union is a privilege. Given the economic and social problems the EU is facing, membership in the EU can be compared to buying a ticket for the Titanic.
If relations with the Eurasian Economic Union are terminated, energy and food prices in Armenia will increase, and the export of Armenian goods will decrease by 70-80 per cent.
Thus, ordinary people will lose their jobs, and income, paying more for the most basic things. In return, they can get visa-free entry to Europe, and Armenia will face depopulation.
RESPONSE
A recurring pro-Kremlin anti-EU disinformation claim discrediting Armenia's cooperation with the West. The article also promotes a long-term pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative about the ‘imminent collapse’ of the EU.
The claim was the Kremlin's reaction, when Armenia's government officially endorsed a draft bill, initiating its process of joining the European Union. The bill was drawn up following a successful petition.
The claim is part of an ongoing pro-Kremlin disinformation campaign against Armenia, amid the country's growing cooperation with the West. Pro-Kremlin media promotes the idea that Armenia is exclusively within Russia's zone of geopolitical dominance, discrediting any rapprochement with other countries. Russia has cautioned Yerevan that the West wants to tear Armenia away from Russia. Russia also warns that the EU promises Armenia a "visa-free regime" in exchange for Armenia's independence and sovereignty.
Armenia has been a sovereign and independent state since 1991 when it proclaimed its independence from the former USSR. As a sovereign state, Armenia is free to decide its foreign policy and alliances.
The EU supports Armenian sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and inviolability of the borders of Armenia, as well as the country's peaceful aspirations.
Russia perceives these independent actions by former Soviet states as a threat to what it considers its ‘sphere of influence’, aggressively targeting these independent moves.
See other examples of similar disinformation narratives: The Western economy is a sinking Titanic; the EU's economic collapse is approaching; the Russian economy largely outperforms European economies in 2023; Europe’s fall continues and poverty is knocking at the door; The EU is on the verge of hunger and political chaos; Armenia needs to be wary of the West which is specialised in colour revolutions.