EU Support for Armenia: The European Commission disbursed €34m to help Armenia’s private sector absorb the hit from Russia’s trade restrictions, with trade facilitation and targeted help for agri-food, floriculture and other export-oriented industries. Consumer Protection Upgrade: Armenia’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission set new CEPA-aligned rules taking effect July 1, including a 2-year warranty for new goods, clear defect disclosure for used items, and fixed repair/replacement timelines. Customs & Trade Links: Armenia and Georgia discussed customs cooperation in Tbilisi after the Georgian Revenue Service leadership met Armenia’s ambassador, while Georgia denied claims that Armenian strawberries were re-exported to Russia via Georgian territory. Telecom Deal: Viva Armenia’s acquisition of GNC Alfa is expected to close soon after regulator approval, with plans to build a large data center. Defense Industry Push: At Eurosatory 2026, Armenia’s high-tech minister said the military-industrial complex has made a “quantum leap,” citing major state procurement investments and new long-term contracts. AI Infrastructure: Prime Minister Pashinyan backed the Firebird AI Factory as strategically important, focusing on construction progress and a path to full launch. Election Fallout: Opposition parties and blocs filed petitions seeking annulment of June 7 parliamentary election results, while arrests of opposition figures drew fresh criticism.