Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated during a press conference that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has initiated a “flirtation” with the European Union, which, in his view, will lead to Armenia’s destruction.

“They’ve started a dangerous flirtation with the European Union. This is a very risky game. He will destroy Armenia. Calm him down,” Lukashenko said, as reported by TASS.

He added that Armenia’s leadership remains upset with him for supporting Azerbaijan in the past, emphasizing that he has always advocated for “rational judgment.” According to Lukashenko, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev had a “pragmatic stance” at the time, and Lukashenko claims he spoke openly about it.

“Pashinyan himself renounced Nagorno Karabakh, even though Aliyev was once willing to agree to Armenia having serious influence in the region,” Lukashenko said.

Addressing the issue of arms sales to Armenia and Azerbaijan, he stated that Belarus had made its offers openly to all sides: “Whoever paid got the weapons.”

Earlier, during an official visit to Azerbaijan, Lukashenko, accompanied by Aliyev, visited occupied Artsakh, including Shushi. He made controversial statements revealing that he had discussed the potential war with Aliyev before 2020. Lukashenko said they had "philosophical conversations" about resolving the conflict through war and overcoming post-conflict challenges. He also stated that "Aliyev is now the leader of the South Caucasus" and that "he must control the region."

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has asserted that at least two CSTO member states assisted Azerbaijan in preparing for the 44-day war against Armenia. He further declared that neither he nor any Armenian official would visit Belarus as long as Lukashenko remains president.