Citizens Arriving from Greece to Armenia Struggle to Re-Depart for Greece

Aida Israelian, who returned to Armenia from Greece months ago and has remained there ever since, has expressed her frustration over her ongoing attempt to travel back to Greece. Flights have been repeatedly postponed for various reasons, and she feels abandoned as no one is offering support in Armenia. Israelian shared her plight with SHAMSHYAN.com, stating:

“I lived in Greece for 17 years, I got married there, my husband is Greek, and we are tax-paying citizens with insurance. I came to Armenia on business on February 17 and have been stuck here since. I brought some money with me, but it has run out due to living expenses and medication. Our flight was scheduled for May 13, changed to June 2, and now it has been rescheduled to July 6. I went to the embassy, and they told me there are 37 people gathered, and the plane needs to be filled before we can depart. I told them that this number isn’t going to change; they need to inform us of our situation, but all they say is to wait.”

“I approached Hrachya Hakobyan during a press conference and explained that we have no benefits or pensions. I asked for at least some social support. I have even reached out to human rights organizations; I am ill and need therapy. I have informed the Human Rights Defender that we need social assistance,” she added. “Tomorrow, we are going to the Greek embassy in Armenia, and I will reiterate through a loudspeaker that we need a quick resolution to our issue.”

“My husband is paying for my insurance, and I do not deserve to die in these conditions on the streets of Armenia if I fall ill. I don’t even have the money for a doctor. I suggest that they at least arrange transit flights from Georgia or Russia so that we can fly out,” Israelian concluded.