VANETSYAN: There Have Been Disagreements Between Me and Nikol Pashinyan

The newspaper "Fact" reports that former National Security Service Director Arthur Vanetsyan stated during a meeting with print media leaders, "I have never regretted my resignation. I only regret that we were unable to justify the hopes and expectations of the thousands of people, the citizens; instead, there have been great reasons for disappointment." This was in response to a question from the head editor of "Fact" about whether he ever regretted resigning.

When asked, "Before the regime change, you were unknown to a broad segment of the public. Prime Minister Pashinyan trusted you, and you gained recognition. Wouldn't it have been morally correct to leave your position in silence?" Vanetsyan replied, "My work over the last 20 years did not imply public activity. That’s why I haven’t had public recognition. I can say that aside from Nikol Pashinyan, 98% of those who came to power previously had no public recognition. After coming to power, everyone could fill their place in society with their work. As for the moral aspect, it would not have been moral for me to continue holding my position due to conformism and not raise concerns about dangers. There have been disagreements between me and Nikol Pashinyan. These have mostly been in perceptions about the citizen, society, and state. I owe nothing to Nikol Pashinyan before or after my resignation," said Vanetsyan.

During this time, Vanetsyan has been accused of betraying Pashinyan, while Pashinyan has been criticized for trusting Vanetsyan initially. When asked if he fears such evaluations, the former head of the NSS responded, "Those who betrayed the ideals of the revolution should fear being labeled as traitors. Those who prioritized their personal interests over the public good should be afraid. All those who will soon wake up and say that they didn't understand what they were doing should fear the label of traitor." Vanetsyan refrained from naming individuals, stating that this discussion concerns a specific circle currently in power.

For more details, refer to today’s issue of the newspaper.