EU-or-EAEU Referendum Pressure: Putin urged Nikol Pashinyan to hold an “as soon as possible” national referendum on Armenia’s EU path versus staying in the Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union, while Pashinyan pressed back over Russian import bans hitting Armenian exports. Diplomatic Fallout: Analysts say the call signals a deepening strategic rift and that Moscow wants a clear “camp” choice, not just election messaging. Armenia–France Ties: Armenia’s Security Council chief Armen Grigoryan met outgoing French Ambassador Olivier Decottignies, praising expanded strategic cooperation. Armenian Church Under Fire: Robert Amsterdam and others argue the anti-church campaign is politically self-defeating, while Armenia’s broader governance debate keeps intensifying. Culture & Heritage: A polychrome mural fragment was found at the Urartian fortress of Erebuni; separate coverage highlights Artsakh’s cultural erasure concerns. Business & Jobs: Ameriabank says retail customers topped 900,000 and targets 1 million by year-end; finfish producers received guidance to export to the EU. Food Safety: From Aug 1, food delivery workers must have sanitary booklets as inspections ramp up. Tech & Startups: Seaside Startup Summit Armenia 2026 opened on Lake Sevan with state co-financing.