EAEU vs EU Pressure: Russia’s MFA says Armenia’s Western-leaning steps are harming Russian interests, while EAEU leaders push Yerevan toward a referendum on EU vs bloc membership ahead of June 7 elections. Election Watch: The International Republican Institute (IRI) will observe the vote June 3-8, with a preliminary assessment due June 8. Budget & Inflation: Armenia’s state budget revenues rose 13.7% year-on-year in Jan-Apr 2026, and May inflation was 4.2% y/y with 0.8% deflation m/m. Food & Export Support: Food prices climbed 6.4% y/y in May; the government will adopt greenhouse export subsidies (tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, flowers). EU Aid Talks: The EU is preparing additional support for Armenia, including possible preferential trade terms via Autonomous Trade Measures. Russia Trade Curbs: Russia continues restricting Armenian imports (agro-produce, flowers, alcohol), raising pressure on exporters. Finance & Markets: Ameriabank won four AMX Awards, highlighting growth in exchange access via MyInvest. Energy/Trade with Iran: Armenia’s deputy PM met Iran’s ambassador to advance cooperation in energy, logistics and trade. Banking Innovation: VTB (Armenia) is expanding telemarketing to deliver remote consultations and loan applications. Regional Connectivity: Armenia-Türkiye normalization talks picked up in Kars, with business meetings focused on transport, logistics and direct trade.