Groong Digest - Friday, Sep. 26, 2025
Daily digest
Articles posted to the News Feed on Groong.org.
1. Azerbaijan Thanks Trump for Brokering Peace with Armenia in U.N. Address
Breitbart recounts Ilham Aliyev’s UNGA speech praising victory in the 2020 war and thanking Donald Trump for brokering an August 2025 peace framework with Armenia, including the TRIPP corridor concept. The piece juxtaposes Baku’s narrative of “liberation” with human-rights groups’ characterization of the 2023 exodus from Nagorno-Karabakh as ethnic cleansing, and notes U.S. hearings and debate. Aliyev credits Turkish support and drone warfare, urges lifting U.S. sanctions, and frames energy security as central to stability and development. (breitbart.com)
2. Putin met with the Armenian Prime Minister in the Kremlin. Pashinyan waited for negotiations until nightfall
Oreanda summarizes a Kremlin meeting where Vladimir Putin received Nikol Pashinyan alongside senior aides including Overchuk, Ushakov, Peskov, Belozerov and Rosatom’s Likhachev. The write-up highlights discussion of nuclear energy cooperation—life-extension at Metsamor and possible small modular projects—and situates the encounter after other high-level meetings that pushed Pashinyan’s turn past midnight. It underscores steady trade ties and the symbolism of World Atomic Week, with nuclear issues anchoring a pragmatic, continuity-focused agenda. (oreanda.ru)
3. Karabakh activists called for support for the right of displaced persons to return
Caucasian Knot reports that more than fifty Karabakh NGOs appealed to Armenians and the diaspora to prioritize collective return for those displaced in 2023. Their plan asks for UN peacekeepers, a demilitarized zone, and temporary UN administration leading to a status referendum. The statement rejects a return under Azerbaijani jurisdiction, demands an end to prosecutions, and calls for global advocacy. Context recalls the 1991 declaration and 2023 hostilities that triggered mass displacement and a renewed focus on rights and guarantees. (eng.kavkaz-uzel.eu)
4. Kremlin: Meeting with Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan
A Kremlin readout details Putin’s meeting with Pashinyan, attended by senior officials including Overchuk, Peskov, Ushakov, Russian Railways’ Belozerov, and Rosatom’s Likhachev. Putin lauds Armenia’s nuclear share and Rosatom’s life-extension work; Pashinyan emphasizes energy’s strategic role and interest in small modular reactors. Both cite record trade in 2024 and pledge continued cooperation. The tone is steady and pragmatic, using nuclear energy as a practical focal point amid wider geopolitical recalibration. (en.kremlin.ru)
5. The Vatican Needs to Defend Armenians .
A RealClearWorld opinion argues recent Vatican engagement with Azerbaijan—funding and cultural restoration deals—risks moral complicity amid allegations of ethnic cleansing and heritage erasure in Artsakh. Recalling Pope Francis’s genocide language and historic ties to Armenia, the author urges halting propaganda-serving partnerships, advocating for protection of Armenian religious sites, supporting safe return of displaced Armenians, and demanding release of prisoners. The essay frames the issue as a test of Vatican leadership and credibility. (realclearworld.com)
6. How Trump Cracked the South Caucasus? — An Interview with Damjan Krnjević Mišković
Hungarian Conservative interviews Damjan Krnjević Mišković about the US-brokered peace and the TRIPP corridor. He says Washington reframed connectivity as a commercial project under Armenian law, enabling transit to Nakhchivan without security guarantees. He anticipates a US–Azerbaijan Strategic Partnership within months, notes mixed Russian and Iranian reactions, and stresses financing and implementation milestones. He also sketches roles for Hungary’s firms in reconstruction beyond TRIPP’s narrow scope. (hungarianconservative.com)
7. How Armenia-Azerbaijan peace could reshape Israel’s regional ties
An Atlantic Council analysis by Sheila Paylan examines how the August 8 declaration and TRIPP could reshape Israel’s relations with Armenia and Azerbaijan. It reviews energy and defense ties with Baku, outlines risks from Iran and Russia, and argues peace could de-risk infrastructure like the BTC pipeline. The piece proposes Israel endorse Armenia’s sovereignty over TRIPP, expand non-political cooperation with Yerevan, and consider an observer-style pathway for Armenia into an Accords ecosystem over time. (atlanticcouncil.org)
8. Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem Faces Bankruptcy Amid Municipal Tax Dispute
The Inscriber describes a severe municipal tax (Arnona) dispute threatening the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem with foreclosure and auction of historic properties. These assets fund schools, hospitals, and cultural programs that support the community. The article argues the conflict endangers heritage and the Christian presence in Jerusalem, alleges internal pressures worsen vulnerabilities, and urges intervention to preserve assets while resolving obligations without dismantling the Patriarchate’s social role. (theinscribermag.com)
9. Armenian Patriarchate in Jerusalem on the Brink of Collapse
TechBullion echoes warnings that a 37-million-NIS Arnona claim and lawsuits could trigger seizures of properties tied to schools, churches and even private homes. Citing the Greek Patriarchate’s past crisis, it warns asset loss would devastate Jerusalem’s Armenian community. The piece calls for urgent engagement by governments, churches and rights groups, framing the issue as not merely financial but a struggle to preserve a 1,600-year Armenian presence in the Holy City and safeguard vital institutions. (techbullion.com)
10. Armenpress: UN Secretary-General meets Russian Foreign Minister
Armenpress reports UN chief António Guterres met Sergey Lavrov on UNGA’s sidelines to discuss the UN80 reform initiative and major crises including Ukraine and the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Russia’s readout stresses Secretariat impartiality under Article 100 and preserving institutional balance among UN organs. Both sides reaffirm cooperation and the UN’s coordinating role. The brief underscores Moscow’s message: reform must be member-state driven, while dialogue with the Secretariat continues on security priorities. (armenpress.am)
11. Putin meets IAEA’s Grossi in Moscow
Armenpress covers Vladimir Putin’s session with IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi during Global Atomic Week. Putin references broad cooperation—from domestic energy to projects abroad—and thanks the Agency. Grossi notes strong international interest in Rosatom, especially across Asia and Africa. The meeting highlights nuclear safety and non-proliferation themes as Russia positions itself within a wider revival of nuclear power and the IAEA emphasizes standards and constructive engagement. (armenpress.am)
12. Trump announces new US tariffs on drugs, trucks and furniture
Armenpress aggregates announcements that President Trump will levy 100% tariffs on branded pharmaceuticals unless firms are building in the U.S., plus 50% on kitchen cabinets/vanities, 30% on upholstered furniture, and 25% on heavy trucks. Supporters argue tariffs will onshore production and harden supply chains; critics warn of higher consumer costs and trade friction. The measures, set for October 1, 2025, fit broader protectionist moves and pressure drugmakers to manufacture domestically. (armenpress.am)
13. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan meets Putin in Moscow
Armenpress recounts Pashinyan’s Moscow meeting with Putin during Global Atomic Week. Themes include extending Metsamor’s life to 2036, exploring small modular reactors, and stabilizing trade amid global headwinds. The exchange projects continuity and pragmatic cooperation in energy and commerce as Armenia balances relationships while pursuing connectivity and reforms. Quotations from both leaders stress a rich bilateral agenda with scope to deepen ties further. (armenpress.am)
14. Lawmakers propose January 27 as Day of Remembrance and Reverence to honor fallen troops
Armenpress says Vice Speaker Ruben Rubinyan and independent MP Gegham Nazaryan proposed designating January 27 as a national day honoring all who fell in military operations. Rubinyan argues a dedicated date allows solemn remembrance preceding Army Day on January 28. The bill will be circulated for input and debate. Supporters frame it as a unifying gesture acknowledging sacrifice across eras and reinforcing national memory and resilience. (armenpress.am)
15. Investigative Committee chief meets Iranian Justice Minister in Yerevan
Armenpress reports Investigative Committee Chairman Artur Poghosyan met Iranian Justice Minister Amin Hossein Rahimi, praising expanded law-enforcement cooperation through daily contacts, information exchange, and practical support. The sides discussed further deepening ties and thanked outgoing Ambassador Mehdi Sobhani for strengthening cooperation. The meeting signals institutionalization of justice collaboration within the broader Armenia–Iran relationship. (armenpress.am)
16. Armenia will not take actions against interests of both countries: Iranian Ambassador
Armenpress quotes Ambassador Mehdi Sobhani saying Armenia will avoid steps contrary to the interests of either Armenia or Iran, referencing the Washington declaration initialing a peace agreement with Azerbaijan. He cites shared principles—sovereignty, territorial integrity, jurisdiction, reciprocity and inviolability of borders—adding ambiguities were clarified in consultations. The envoy underscores close contact and a general understanding between Tehran and Yerevan. (armenpress.am)
17. Trade turnover between Armenia and Iran could reach $3 billion: Iranian Ambassador
At a press conference, Ambassador Mehdi Sobhani projects Armenia–Iran trade could rise from roughly $900 million this year toward $3 billion with logistics upgrades. He cites progress on the Agarak–Kajaran stretch of the North–South corridor and positions infrastructure delivery as key to unlocking potential. The remarks reflect optimism about deepening economic ties amid broader regional changes following the peace declaration. (armenpress.am)
18. Defense cooperation with Armenia has developed: Iranian Ambassador
Sobhani highlights renewed defense engagement—recalling reciprocal ministerial visits after a long pause—while insisting cooperation targets stability and Armenia’s self-defense, not third countries. The summary places defense collaboration within a steady expansion of multi-sector ties as Armenia and Iran adjust to emerging connectivity plans and evolving security dynamics after the Washington declaration. (armenpress.am)
19. Electricity exports from Armenia to Iran to triple: Iranian Ambassador
Armenpress outlines plans surrounding a third transmission line and the Noravan 400-kV substation: exports starting around 200 MW could scale toward 1,000 MW after upgrades and transformer installations, excluding 300 MW under the gas-for-electricity swap. The expansion would mark a significant deepening of energy interdependence and grid capacity, with phased milestones expected as infrastructure comes online. (armenpress.am)
20. Armenian PM to address UNGA
Armenpress notes Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will speak at the UN General Assembly’s high-level debate on September 26–27 and meet with Secretary-General António Guterres. The appearance offers an opportunity to frame Armenia’s priorities—peace implementation, connectivity, reforms, and security—in a global forum and engage partners on economic and governance agendas. (armenpress.am)
21. Armenian Foreign Minister, EU’s top diplomat discuss geopolitical, regional developments
Armenpress reports Ararat Mirzoyan met EU High Representative Kaja Kallas on the UNGA sidelines. They affirmed momentum in Armenia–EU partnership across priority programs, exchanged assessments of regional developments, and discussed connectivity as a stabilizing factor. The meeting reflects Yerevan’s diversification toward Europe while managing sensitivities around new transit arrangements and balanced relations with neighbors and major powers. (armenpress.am)
22. ‘Int’l law must apply to all weapons - past, present, and future,’ - Armenian Deputy FM at UNSC debate on AI
At the UN Security Council’s open debate on AI and international peace and security, Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisoghomonyan emphasized that international humanitarian law—legality, proportionality, precaution and distinction—must govern all weapons, including autonomous systems. He urged common rules before discussing purported benefits, warned of instability from uncontrolled proliferation, and said the UN should bridge divisions to build a shared understanding. Armenpress frames the remarks as a principled posture aligning Armenia with rule‑of‑law safeguards in emerging tech governance. (armenpress.am)
23. UNGA: Armenian FM hails peace with Azerbaijan at G20 Ministerial Meeting
Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan’s G20 ministerial speech declares peace with Azerbaijan “now established” after the August 8 Washington initialing of a treaty. He touts the Crossroads of Peace and TRIPP projects as engines for growth and people‑to‑people contact, while calling for reforms to the global financial architecture that better serve developing states. The statement situates connectivity plans within Armenia’s broader multilateral agenda and invites international backing through the G20 process. (armenpress.am)
24. Armenian, German Foreign Ministers discuss a number of issues
Ararat Mirzoyan met Germany’s foreign minister in New York to review bilateral ties, democratic challenges, and regional developments. Mirzoyan thanked Berlin for sustained attention to South Caucasus stability and briefed on implementation steps following the Washington agreement. The readout underscores Armenia‑EU alignment on democratic consolidation and connectivity while pointing to new avenues for deepening cooperation across sectors. (armenpress.am)
25. Armenia’s efforts toward sustainable peace encouraging - German Foreign Ministry
Germany’s foreign ministry publicly welcomed Armenia’s push toward sustainable peace with Azerbaijan, posting support on X after UNGA‑week meetings. According to Armenpress, Berlin pledged continued backing as Yerevan implements agreements reached in Washington. The item places the endorsement within broader European engagement and emphasizes that external confidence grows as concrete steps on connectivity and normalization proceed. (armenpress.am)
26. Police refuse to name suspect as unconfirmed report suggests possible blood feud in mayor’s murder
Armenian police declined to confirm media reports that a suspect had been apprehended in the killing of Parakar mayor Volodya Grigoryan and an off‑duty officer. CCTV footage from the scene shows a masked gunman firing and striking the fallen mayor. Officials said investigative actions continue. MediaHub suggested a possible blood‑feud link involving relatives of earlier victims and former officials, but authorities would not validate those claims pending further work. (armenpress.am)
27. Regional police commissioner fired after mayor’s murder
The Interior Ministry dismissed Armavir provincial Criminal Police chief Colonel Artur Bdoyan following the Merdzavan shooting that killed Mayor Volodya Grigoryan and officer Karen Abrahamyan. The government previously called for a thorough review of preventive measures and accountability for lapses. The report recaps known details, including seized CCTV footage, as the inquiry examines motives and suspects amid heightened public scrutiny of policing effectiveness. (armenpress.am)
28. Person arrested in connection with murder of Parakar Mayor Volodya Grigoryan: Deputy Police Chief
Deputy Police Chief Vardan Vardanyan told 24news that a person has been arrested over the Parakar murders and that the case stems from interpersonal conflict, not politics. He said detailed statements will follow, while a ministry spokesperson noted no additional information yet. Media reports link the suspect to an earlier fatal shooting involving relatives of the victim and former mayor, suggesting a feud context. Authorities continue investigative steps and evidence gathering. (armenpress.am)
29. Speaker of Parliament confident of landslide victory in next year’s general election
Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan predicted the ruling Civil Contract party will win an even larger share than in 2021, citing momentum after the August 8 Washington agreement and upcoming policy steps. He referenced the prior 54% vote share and 71‑seat majority, asserting the party’s prospects are stronger. The brief positions Simonyan’s confidence within the campaign’s early framing and ongoing legislative agenda. (armenpress.am)
30. Speaker suggests personal motive likely in Parakar mayor’s murder
Addressing questions after the Parakar killings, Speaker Alen Simonyan suggested the motive was likely personal rather than political, aligning with law‑enforcement indications of interpersonal conflict. He urged patience as investigators proceed and pushed back on narratives of politically motivated violence. The report summarizes his comments in the context of public debate and media speculation surrounding the high‑profile case. (armenpress.am)
31. Calling TRIPP “a corridor” disrespectful to US President Trump: Speaker Simonyan
Alen Simonyan argued that labeling the TRIPP project a “corridor” mischaracterizes its design and disrespects the U.S. president who backed it. He stressed the arrangement operates fully under Armenia’s sovereignty and jurisdiction, consistent with the Washington declaration’s principles. The note situates the linguistic dispute within domestic politics and regional messaging battles over connectivity and status. (armenpress.am)
32. World School Milk Day Celebrated in Armenia
Armenpress covers events marking World School Milk Day, highlighting nutrition education, local dairy partnerships, and outreach to schools to promote healthy habits. Officials and program partners emphasized the role of milk in child development and the importance of stable supply chains. The celebration provides a platform to showcase public‑private initiatives in food security and student wellness. (armenpress.am)
33. The International Chess Tournament Sponsored by AraratBank is Officially Underway
A sports brief announces the launch of an international chess tournament sponsored by AraratBank, outlining the draw, venue and schedule. Organizers said the event aims to promote competitive play and youth development, with side activities for families and fans. The item underscores Armenia’s enduring chess culture and institutional support for the game. (armenpress.am)
34. Armenia advances export quality control, licensed brandy inspection expected soon
Armenpress reports regulatory steps to upgrade export quality control, including timelines for licensed brandy inspections and harmonization with target‑market standards. Officials predict better compliance, fewer shipment delays, and strengthened brand reputation as processes modernize and integrate with customs systems. (armenpress.am)
35. Central Bank of Armenia: exchange rates and prices of precious metals - 26-09-2025
A daily Central Bank update lists AMD exchange rates and precious‑metals prices, providing baseline information for traders, importers and exporters. The bulletin sits alongside macro indicators and market commentary used by businesses for day‑to‑day planning. (armenpress.am)
36. President Khachaturyan delivers speech at Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion
President Vahagn Khachaturyan addressed the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion, focusing on human dignity, child protection and inclusive development. He placed Armenia’s reform agenda within universal values and encouraged collaboration with international partners and civil‑society actors to advance social resilience. (armenpress.am)
37. Information attributed to defense minister is “absurd” - Defense Ministry
Armenpress relays a Defense Ministry response dismissing claims attributed to the minister as “absurd.” The statement reiterates official policy lines and urges reliance on verified sources, reflecting ongoing information battles around security matters and defense reform. (armenpress.am)
38. Armenpress: Deputy Foreign Minister participates in High-level side event on “Missing Peace”
Deputy FM Abisoghomonyan joined a UNGA side event on “Missing Peace,” focusing on conflict prevention and accountability. The summary highlights Armenia’s advocacy for international law, support for multilateral mechanisms, and integration of humanitarian perspectives into security dialogues. (armenpress.am)
39. Verelq: Ներսում՝ իմպիչմենտ, դրսում ՝ հանրահավաք. ՄԱՄՈՒԼ
Verelq’s press roundup captures the juxtaposition of impeachment‑related hearings inside parliament with rallies outside, collecting headlines and quotes across outlets. It underscores intensifying political contestation and the choreography of street‑and‑chamber tactics as opposition groups test narratives and turnout. (verelq.am)
40. Մեկնարկել է Հիսուս Քրիստոսի մոնումենտալ արձան - համալիրի կառուցման պատմական գիտահետազոտական աշխատանքը
A cultural notice announces the launch of historical‑research work for a monumental Jesus Christ statue‑complex. The outline references planned phases, expert involvement, and the project’s intended spiritual and touristic roles. Debate over public priorities and aesthetics accompanies the initiative as organizers court broad support. (verelq.am)
41. Ընդդիմությունը՝ ներկա. ԱԺ-ում մեկնարկել են խորհրդարանական լսումները
Verelq reports that parliamentary hearings initiated by the “I Have Honor” faction have begun, with participation from both parliamentary and extra‑parliamentary opposition. On the agenda are an impeachment initiative against Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and a draft declaration on national crisis and governance failures. A rally by the “We Are Awake” movement runs in parallel outside the National Assembly. (verelq.am)
42. Որևէ նոր բան չկա. ՆԳՆ-ն՝ Մերձավանում տեղի ունեցածի մասին
The Interior Ministry reiterated there is no new information regarding the Merdzavan shooting that killed Parakar mayor Volodya Grigoryan and an off‑duty police officer. Officials said investigative activities continue and cautioned against unverified reports. The brief reflects ongoing sensitivity as authorities face scrutiny over the pace and transparency of the probe. (verelq.am)
43. Տեր-Պետրոսյանի կուսակցությունը նպատակ ունի լուրջ դեր ունենալ 2026-ի ընտրություններում
Verelq highlights plans by Levon Ter‑Petrosyan’s party to play a serious role in Armenia’s 2026 elections, aligning with a day of impeachment hearings and sharpened opposition messaging. The piece frames organizational goals, candidate positioning, and the desire to influence the national agenda. Against a backdrop of institutional strain and debates over sovereignty and security, the party signals its intent to convert street‑level energy into electoral strategy and parliamentary leverage. (verelq.am)
44. «Հայաստան» խմբակցությունը միացավ «Պատիվ ունեմ»-ի իմպիչմենտի գործընթացին
The ‘Hayastan’ parliamentary alliance formally joins the ‘I Have Honor’ faction’s impeachment initiative, saying Pashinyan’s actions bear the hallmarks of treason and violate constitutional order. Lawmaker Ishkhan Saghatelyan pledges votes in committee and plenary, promising to navigate technicalities to advance the motion. The story underscores how opposition blocs are converting months of rhetoric into coordinated procedure aimed at a no‑confidence challenge inside the chamber. (verelq.am)
45. ՔԿ Արմավիրի մարզային վարչության պետն ազատվել է պաշտոնից
Verelq reports that Hrachya Ghazaryan has been released from his duties as head of the Investigative Committee’s Armavir division, with Artak Ghazaryan appointed acting chief. The change follows the murder of Parakar mayor Volodya Grigoryan and a companion, incidents that heightened scrutiny on local law enforcement performance. The brief notes the resignation basis and situates the personnel move within the broader probe’s unfolding timeline and public pressure for results. (verelq.am)
46. Verelq: Աբրահամ Գասպարյանը հայտարարեց քաղաքականություն մուտք գործելու մասին
Media figure Abraham Gasparyan declares he is entering politics and will appear on television only as a guest going forward. Positioning his move as a response to national stakes ahead of 2026, he argues the alternative to the ruling party is dignified peace, not war, and calls for institutional renewal. The statement sets the tone for a new opposition chapter while framing media work as insufficient to confront governance challenges. (verelq.am)
47. Asbarez: BERD Dance Ensemble Announces U.S. Tour with Performances in L.A., Chicago, and N.Y.
The BERD Dance Ensemble—Armenia’s honored national collective—announces November performances in Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York. Founded in 1963 by Boris Gevorgyan and led by Karen Gevorgyan, BERD blends ethnography with choreography across a 60‑year repertoire. With hundreds of festivals and thousands of concerts, the group serves as a cultural bridge for the diaspora. The tour promises virtuosity and heritage celebration, with ticketing information shared for the three venues. (asbarez.com)
48. Asbarez: ATP Writes a New Chapter for Forest Governance in Armenia
Asbarez reports on Armenia Tree Project’s stewardship of the Hrant Dink Memorial Forest and a governance model centered on community partnership in Fioletovo. The initiative threads conservation with cultural memory, advancing sustainable forestry, local oversight, and education. By institutionalizing care for a living memorial, organizers aim to strengthen resilience, biodiversity, and public engagement. The article highlights ATP’s decades of reforestation work and the forest’s symbolic role in j... (asbarez.com)
49. Փաշինյանի պաշտոնավարումը գոյության սպառնալիք է Հայաստանի համար. հայտարարություն
During the hearings, opposition figures brand Pashinyan’s tenure an existential threat to Armenia, citing crisis conditions and strategic drift. Tigran Abrahamyan outlines the case for a no‑confidence path, arguing that political clarity, institutional repair, and security re‑prioritization require a reset. The statement crystalizes months of debate into procedural momentum, positioning impeachment not as symbolism but as an actionable route to restore governance and strategic coherence. (168.am)
50. Մեր ստորագրությունները տալիս ենք. Իշխան Սաղաթելյան
Ishkhan Saghatelyan announces the ‘Hayastan’ faction is transferring 28 signatures to the ‘I Have Honor’ group to initiate impeachment against Prime Minister Pashinyan. He asserts constitutional order has been repeatedly violated and that legal‑political grounds for removal are incontrovertible. The piece underlines coordinated caucus tactics and signals a readiness to navigate technical hurdles, treating the day’s hearings as a launchpad for a unified opposition track in parliament. (168.am)
51. Ընդդիմադիրնե՛ր, հլը դուք միավորվե՛ք, նոր ՔՊ-ի մասին խոսեք. ի՞նչն է բա լուրջ՝ պարապ նստե՞լը. Դավիթ Համբարձումյան
Impeachment nominee Davit Hambardzumyan urges opposition consolidation during parliamentary hearings, arguing outcomes follow action, not hesitation. His comments push back on defeatism and call for immediate, collective steps to challenge the government within constitutional bounds. The article situates his stance in the day’s hearing cycle, linking street expectations with legislative arithmetic, and framing unity as the decisive variable for moving beyond rhetorical critique to tangible change. (168.am)
52. Ես պետք է հեռացնեմ Նիկոլ Փաշինյանին. այս բանաձևով պետք է գործենք յուրաքանչյուրս. Արմեն Աշոտյան
Republican Party figure Armen Ashotyan tells parliament that impeachment reflects a broader national agenda to repair state capacity after the current government. He calls for coordinated opposition action and a concrete program for the “Armenia after Nikol” horizon. The speech ties institutional breakdown during the 44‑day war to leadership failures and urges unity behind a non‑violent constitutional path, arguing that public consent and preparedness—not improvisation—must shape the transition. (168.am)
53. «Թրամփի ուղու» հետ կապված անհասկանալի պահեր կային, երկկողմ զրույցների ընթացքում դրանք վերացան. Սոբհանի
Iran’s ambassador in Yerevan, Mehdi Sobhani, says ambiguities around TRIPP—dubbed the “Trump Route”—have eased through bilateral talks, though some issues remain. He underscores ongoing discussions about modalities and oversight. The comment reflects Tehran’s vigilance about border implications, security presence and regional balance. The article places the remarks amid domestic disputes over sovereignty, legislative steps, and whether the corridor framework enhances stability or invites new levera... (168.am)
54. Պաշինյանը չի՞ տրամադրել Քննիչ հանձնաժողովին իր նախապատերազմական հարցազրույցը
An article revisits Nikol Pashinyan’s September 26, 2020 pre‑war TV interview, advertised but never released, suggesting the prime minister withheld it from a parliamentary inquiry. The piece frames the omission as politically salient evidence about decisions preceding the 44‑day war. Citing past coverage and social posts, it questions transparency, implies institutional stonewalling, and links the dispute to current impeachment hearings, arguing that clarifying the record is vital for public trust... (168.am)
55. ՀԻՇԵ՛Ք. Այսօր ադրբեջանցի Ռամիլ Սաֆարովի կողմից քնած ժամանակ կացնահարված Գուրգեն Մարգարյանի ծննդյան օրն է
A remembrance marks the birthday of Gurgen Margaryan, the Armenian officer axed to death in his sleep by Azerbaijani serviceman Ramil Safarov during a NATO course in Budapest in 2004. The note recounts Safarov’s transfer to Azerbaijan, his hero’s welcome, and the lasting trauma of the case. It underscores continuing grievances about justice, accountability, and state‑level messaging, while situating the tragedy in today’s fragile regional dynamics and debates over security and reconciliation. (168.am)
56. Ոչ լեգիտիմ իշխանություններին մի՛ լսեք. ժողովուրդը նրանց չի՛ ընտրել. Թևան Պողոսյան
Political analyst Tevan Poghosyan argues that Armenia’s security begins at Akna’s frontier and criticizes shifting official narratives after the August 8 accord. He contends the government’s statements aim to retain power rather than protect national interests, and warns demographic and sovereignty issues outweigh semantics like the country’s name. In a TV appearance, he urges sober debate about the “pre‑signed” peace and its conflicting interpretations, insisting policies reflect genuine public wi... (168.am)
57. Ի՞նչ է կատարվում ՀԷՑ-ի շուրջ
A commentary details turmoil around the national electricity distributor (HEC/HEP), criticizing the appointment of a temporary administrator and sweeping managerial changes as politicized. It notes alleged salary spikes, investor distrust, and a Moody’s downgrade amid a push some see as de‑facto nationalization. Court actions challenge the legality of urgent legislative steps, while former management accuses regulators of abuse. The piece warns of regulatory risk, reputational harm, and a chilling ... (168.am)
58. Դուք վաղուց ոչ միայն անտանելի եք, այլև զզվելի…. Լևոն Զավախյանը` իշխող խմբակին և նրանց ողորմելի խմբավարին
Writer Levon Zavakhyan posts a blistering rebuke of the ruling party and Prime Minister Pashinyan, invoking earlier insults hurled at ex‑President Levon Ter‑Petrosyan. He frames current governance as a blend of defeat, sycophancy and incompetence that desecrates the gains of independence. The essay, personal and polemical, urges moral accounting and paints the leadership as historically disposable. It echoes a growing stream of opposition commentary tethered to church‑state frictions and the politi... (168.am)
59. 168: Էդ Ո՞Ւմ Ես Խաբում. Իրանի Ցամաքային Զորքերը Մտնեն, Ադրբեջանից Բան Չի Մնա. Վաշինգտոնի Թղթո՞Վ Ես Անվտանգություն Ապահովելու. Արտակ Զաքարյան
Former deputy defense minister Artak Zakaryan argues impeachment is a national necessity and ridicules the government’s reliance on documents rather than hard power for security. In an interview format, he claims defense cuts and policy zigzags endanger Armenia while neighbors arm up. He castigates the TRIPP framework and warns U.S. and Russian messaging are being played politically, asserting Iran’s entry into a conflict would devastate Azerbaijan. The remarks fold into a broader opposition narrat... (168.am)
60. RFE/RL - Putin Praises Russian-Armenian Ties
Meeting Nikol Pashinian in the Kremlin after Moscow’s World Atomic Week, Vladimir Putin lauded expanding Russian‑Armenian relations and record bilateral trade. Despite public warmth, frictions linger over Armenia’s EU ambitions and the U.S.-brokered TRIPP transit plan. Demonstrators in Moscow protested Pashinian’s visit, reflecting ongoing tensions. Analysts see Russia’s response to TRIPP as cautious; officials warn of economic costs should Armenia pivot toward the EU. Pashinian says cooperation de... (azatutyun.am)
61. Law-Enforcement Officials Sacked After Opposition Mayor’s Killing
After the fatal shooting of Merdzavan community head Volodya Grigorian and an off-duty policeman, Armenia’s police and Investigative Committee dismissed their Armavir chiefs. Surveillance footage showed a masked gunman opening fire outside the mayor’s home; no arrests were announced. Prosecutors pledge urgency, while Interior Minister Arpine Sargsian and police leadership attend memorials and face pressure. Political opponents accuse the government of fostering impunity. The community has seen earl... (azatutyun.am)
62. Iranian Envoy Notes Unanswered Questions On U.S.-Armenia Corridor Deal
Outgoing Ambassador Mehdi Sobhani says key specifics of the planned U.S.-administered corridor across Armenia’s Syunik province remain unclear. While Yerevan insists it will retain full control through a joint venture, Tehran worries about border implications and possible foreign security presence. Sobhani also stresses reciprocity in new transit links, suggesting Armenians should likewise access Iran via Nakhichevan. The remarks land as Azerbaijani rhetoric brands TRIPP as “unhindered passage,” an... (azatutyun.am)
63. RFE/RL - Armenian Opposition Condemns Defense Spending Cut Planned By Government
Opposition lawmakers denounce the government’s draft 2026 budget for slashing defense outlays by over 15%, framing it as another unilateral concession to Azerbaijan. Figures from the bill show a planned drop from 665 billion to 563 billion drams while Baku projects roughly $5 billion for security next year. Critics warn Armenia’s posture and procurement will suffer; officials counter that reforms continue. The debate follows the August 8 TRIPP accord and fresh domestic controversy over shortening c... (azatutyun.am)