As a result of the 2018 Armenian Velvet Revolution, Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sargsyan announced on April 23 he would resign to maintain peace in Armenia following daily protests. The EU applauded the peaceful nature of the changes. While opposition leader Nikol Pashinyan advocated for Armenia's neutral position and positive relations with both the EU and Russia. Pashinyan further stated that should he become Prime Minister, he would deepen relations with the EU and will do everything possible for Armenian citizens to be granted visa-free access to the Schengen Area. However, Pashinyan confirmed he would not withdraw Armenia's membership from the Eurasian Union, despite previous discussions questioning Armenia's membership.