Artificial Escalation of Anti-Russian Sentiments Occurring Recently in Armenia: Tsarukyan Issues Statement

I want to firmly state that I, as the President of the largest opposition political force in the Republic of Armenia, the Prosperous Armenia party, as a politician, and as a citizen, will do everything to prevent provocations aimed at creating anti-Russian sentiments in our country. This was written by BHK leader Gagik Tsarukyan on his Facebook page.

He specifically wrote: "Dear compatriots, recently there has been an artificial escalation of anti-Russian sentiments in Armenia, actively implemented by anti-Armenian and anti-state forces. The ultimate goal of these forces is to sever the friendly ties between our two nations.

As an example, it should be noted that the thesis is being introduced into Armenian society that it is necessary to revise the military agreement with Russia, which would lead to the removal of the Russian 102nd military base from our country. I believe we all understand well that this is not only the dream of Turkey and Azerbaijan, which continuously threaten us with war and destruction, but also creates fertile ground for destabilizing the fragile peace in the entire region.

I want to firmly state that I, as the President of the largest opposition political force in the Republic of Armenia, the Prosperous Armenia party, as a politician, and as a citizen, will do everything to prevent provocations aimed at creating anti-Russian sentiments in our country. I am confident that for the development of Armenia and the strengthening of our country’s security and independence, we must deepen and strengthen our relations with the Russian Federation based on mutual respect and the fraternal centuries-old relations, both bilaterally and within the frameworks of the CIS, EEU, CSTO, and other political, economic, and military formats that will be mutually beneficial for our two nations.

God protect us all.

Sincerely, BHK President Gagik Tsarukyan.