I Asked Putin for Many Things, But to Call and Ask Him to Keep My Power, Who Would I Be Then? - Serge Sargsyan

In an interview with director Mher Mkrtchyan, the third President of Armenia, Serge Sargsyan, stated that he has never even considered asking for help from a strategic ally to maintain his power, calling it very offensive.

“I have asked Russia, our strategic ally, for many things, including military-technical assistance, which has been fully provided. I have requested new armaments, and loans for new armaments have been granted. I have asked for necessary armaments that are not sold to other countries, and that has been done as well. I have also sought solutions to various economic issues, and yes, they have been resolved. But to call and ask him, plead, ‘Please help me keep my power,’ who would I be then? Specifically, you, Mher, as a citizen of the Republic of Armenia, would that be pleasant to you? Isn’t it shameful to ask a strategic ally or another leader for something for your country?” Sargsyan emphasized.

According to the former president, dignity associated with the nation is very valuable. “You know, different people perceive dignity differently, do you understand? I have previously given several examples that this has nothing to do with dignity when you are disrespectful towards your partner. That is not dignity. Dignity is when you are able to solve the problems facing your country. And I have never felt diminished in my dignity, even if I have asked for a lot of weapons and received not so much; yes, in such cases, it is normal. But to ask and say, ‘Please help me keep my power’—that’s not mine, it truly isn’t mine. Or to ask, ‘Please help me to come to power, and I will do everything you say’—that’s not mine either,” Sargsyan added.