Painting of Nzhdeh's Memorial Plaque May Lead to Interethnic Tensions: Statement

The Armenian Embassy in Russia has reacted to an incident that took place in the city of Armavir, Krasnodar Krai, expressing concern that the actions of a local deputy may have adverse consequences.

Deputy Alexey Vinogradov of the Armavir City Duma has painted over a memorial plaque dedicated to Garegin Nzhdeh, which is located in the yard of an Armenian church.

“What happened in Armavir has raised serious concerns among many of our compatriots living both in Armenia and in Russia. The embassy will notify the relevant authorities of the Russian Federation about the vandalism that occurred in the vicinity of the Armenian church in Armavir,” the embassy’s statement noted.

The diplomatic mission calls on the city authorities of Armavir to provide a proper assessment of the incident, assuring that the embassy will keep the matter under close attention.