Pashinyan accuses Karapetyan and others of being ‘foreign agents’

Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan Accuses Rivals of Being ‘Foreign Agents’

Yerevan – Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has accused several individuals, including detained tycoon Samvel Karapetyan, of operating as “foreign agents,” claiming authorities have compiled a list of those acting under foreign influence. Pashinyan stated that state agencies had assessed data indicating a number of individuals were engaging in activities aligned with foreign agendas. Speaking in response to earlier comments regarding “foreign agents” in Armenia, Pashinyan clarified that his list primarily targeted political figures.

He warned that those deemed to be operating “within that logic” were dangerously close to espionage and would face consequences. The accusations stem from a broader dispute surrounding Karapetyan’s opposition party, Strong Armenia, and his criticisms of Pashinyan’s government. Karapetyan previously warned of an “economic war” with Russia if Pashinyan remained in power, following concerns about potential disruptions to Armenia’s economic ties with Russia.

Pashinyan has framed Karapetyan and his supporters as a “war party,” citing concerns about potential fallout from Russia following a recent meeting between the two leaders. Russia has responded with increased scrutiny on Armenian imports and the reopening of a criminal case against a major mineral water producer. Karapetyan, who is currently under house arrest, is a prominent Armenian businessman and a leading contender in the upcoming June parliamentary elections.

Pashinyan has criticized Karapetyan for seeking to renounce his citizenship, highlighting Armenian legislation requiring prime ministerial and MP candidates to be solely Armenian nationals. The escalating tensions between Pashinyan and Karapetyan reflect broader concerns about Armenia’s foreign policy and its relationship with Russia, particularly as the country prepares for elections. Both Pashinyan and Karapetyan continue to assert their respective visions for Armenia’s future, with significant implications for the country’s economic and political landscape.

The situation is ongoing, with Karapetyan remaining a key figure in the upcoming elections.

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