Vazgen Manukyan Issues Statement

The former Prime Minister of Armenia, Vazgen Manukyan, has issued a statement. “In the relationships between states—whether it be cooperation, alliance, or enmity—there is a crucial component dictated by international law, which is being able to help each other. This component is 'manliness', that is, can you defend your state’s interests, your borders, your possessions, and your people? If this component is absent, then there is no real cooperation, assistance, respect, or internal development. Currently, Armenia is in a situation characterized by a weak, ignorant, and treasonous government. The recent capture of 6 Armenian servicemen is also a vivid proof of this. Until now, despite all our internal struggles, developments, grievances, and issues, we were considered a 'man' state—confident that our security was not under threat. And precisely due to this component, we were able to gain the respect and assistance of other states.

In these circumstances, the most inexplicable behavior is that of the military leadership, which undermines and destroys the credibility of our army and state. There is a simple rule: whoever continuously retreats to avoid confrontation will face a great war in an even worse situation.

In light of the current situation:

1. The Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia must take full responsibility for the country's defense. By avoiding accountability today regarding the country’s defense, you will bear a heavier responsibility before the state and its people tomorrow for your failure to assume that responsibility at this crucial moment.
2. I urge the political parties and alliances participating in the elections to declare that all written, verbal, known, and secret agreements made by Pashinyan and Aliyev concerning our security and territories will be considered null and void upon coming to power, deeming them illegal.
3. I propose that all parties, both participating and not participating in the elections, urgently unite to attempt to change the acting Prime Minister. This will ensure: the annulment of Pashinyan’s illegal agreements—depriving Azerbaijan of its ability to justify its aggression with those agreements and promises—and the holding of relatively fair elections on June 20.