Matviyenko Warns Armenia: Russia May Advise Citizens Not to Visit

The Chairwoman of the Russian Federation Council, Valentina Matviyenko, stated that if Armenia continues to detain Russian citizens at the request of third countries, Moscow may issue an official warning advising its citizens not to visit the country. During a phone call between Matviyenko and the Speaker of the Armenian National Assembly, Ruben Rubinyan, the current state of relations between the two countries was discussed. Matviyenko expressed concern over the detention of Russian citizens in Armenia at the request of third countries. Emphasizing that Moscow may tighten its tourism recommendations, Matviyenko warned that if such practices continue, Russia may be forced to issue a warning to its citizens not to visit Armenia. The conversation also touched upon the future of inter-parliamentary cooperation, relations in the humanitarian and cultural spheres, as well as key issues on the international and bilateral agenda. Matviyenko also addressed Armenia's intention to join the European Union, stressing that this foreign policy preference contradicts the country's obligations and cooperation framework within the Eurasian Economic Union.