Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk has commented on the Trump Route, stating that discussions on the issue are ongoing with both Yerevan and Baku.
“We have a clear understanding of how this will work,” said Overchuk, adding that the establishment of such a route would contribute to the formation of a unified transportation framework across Eurasia.
“If this route is implemented, it will, among other things, facilitate connectivity between Armenia and Russia. In our estimation, it is likely to become the primary route for transporting goods between our two countries,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.
Speaking on economic relations with Armenia, Overchuk acknowledged a decline in bilateral trade. “If this trend continues, we may have to reconsider our economic policy toward Armenia,” he warned.
Overchuk also pointed to Armenia’s potential shift toward the European Union and emphasized the importance of strategic choice between the EU and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). “That decision rests solely with Armenia. However, such a shift would come with consequences,” he said.
“For instance, energy and food supplies from Russia would be priced differently. Also, as you know, the European Union’s airspace is closed to Russian aircraft. This would mean that Armenia’s airspace would likewise be closed to Russian carriers, and Russia would reciprocate,” Overchuk stated, stressing that the consequences could be far-reaching.
The Deputy Prime Minister also addressed Russia’s economic ties with Azerbaijan, describing them as “normal.” “We are working constructively and have no issues,” he added.