The Council of the European Union has announced the launch of the EU Partnership Mission in Armenia (EUPM Armenia) under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). This advisory, civilian CSDP mission aims to support Armenian authorities in strengthening the country’s resilience against hybrid threats and enhancing its ability to respond to changing security challenges, according to the Council’s statement.

"The mission, which was formally established on 21 April 2026, will help develop Armenia's capacity to counter hybrid threats, including cyberattacks, foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), and illicit financial flows.

Specifically, EUPM Armenia will provide strategic advice, technical expertise, and support in institutional capacity-building for various state entities in Armenia. Furthermore, the mission will promote a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to responding to these threats.

In addition to its advisory tasks, the mission will deliver practical operational support and will set up a dedicated project cell to implement targeted actions within its mandate, in close coordination with international partners.

At the same time, EUPM Armenia is a non-executive mission and will not take part in decision-making by Armenian authorities," the statement says.

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated that the new mission is part of comprehensive support for Armenia.

"Last week, the EU presented a substantial economic and political support package for Armenia to help it withstand pressure from Russia. Today, we are deploying a new EU mission on the ground. European experts will assist Armenian authorities in fighting cyber threats, disinformation, and illicit financial flows. The EU is the ultimate supporter of a resilient and independent Armenia, and of the Armenian people’s right to choose their own path. We will make sure Armenia does not stand alone against external coercion," Kallas said.

The mission was established at the request of the government of Armenia and forms part of a broader EU strategy to strengthen the country’s national security. Its activities will combine short- and long-term support measures aimed at bolstering the resilience of the state and its democratic institutions.

EUPM Armenia will provide strategic advice, specialized expertise, and facilitate the development of state institutions, helping Armenia to better prevent, detect, and counter hybrid threats while fully respecting the country's sovereignty.

The mission’s initial mandate is for two years. Its personnel will primarily consist of experts seconded by European Union member states.

On 11 June 2026, Cosmin George Dinescu, who previously led the first EU Partnership Mission in the Republic of Moldova, was appointed Head of Mission.

The EU Partnership Mission (EUPM Armenia) is the second civilian EU mission in Armenia. It operates separately from the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA), established in 2023, which focuses on observing the situation on the ground, contributing to confidence-building, and ensuring human security.