Armenians Protest Against Joining Russia-Led Customs Union

Armenians protest in front of the president's residence against Armenia joining the Russia-led Customs Union.

YEREVAN -- Dozens of people have rallied in front of the presidential palace in the Armenian capital, Yerevan, calling on President Serzh Sarkisian to overturn his decision to join the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.

The protest was organized by former presidential candidate Paruyr Hairikian. The protesters were holding posters, saying: "No to Customs Union," "No to Russian Empire," and "Vilnius or Resignation!"

Earlier this month, Armenia signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Commission, which oversees the integration of former Soviet republics around the Russia-led Customs Union.

EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fuele has said Yerevan cannot sign an Association Agreement with the bloc at a summit in Vilnius this month if it also intends to join the Customs Union.