Nikol Pashinyan Denies Reports of Hiding Minefield Maps from Russian Partners

Nikol Pashinyan concluded his election campaign in the Ararat region on June 14 in Artashat, expressing gratitude to the residents for their support. He expressed confidence that on June 20, citizens would confirm their own governance.

Pashinyan addressed the recent return of Armenian prisoners of war to Armenia, noting that some of them are from the Ararat region. “There are forces that not only have not rejoiced but have been saddened by this situation and for the past few days, have spread all kinds of gossip. The latest rumor is that we allegedly hid minefield maps from our Russian partners. This is absolute nonsense. Prior to this, we provided the Azerbaijani side with minefield maps through our Russian partners. I have also stated that we sent examples of these maps to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. I want to emphasize that some want to drive a wedge between Armenia and Russia, but I will say this will not happen. We are grateful not only to our partners from the USA, Georgia, and the EU who played a significant role in the return of 15 prisoners of war, but I want to remind that prior to that, Russian representatives worked with great efficiency on the return of over 50 prisoners,” Pashinyan stated.

According to him, since November 9 of last year, he has had over ten phone conversations with the President of Russia. He noted that there have been two face-to-face meetings with the Russian president this year, and the key issue discussed was the return of prisoners. Pashinyan emphasized that Vladimir Putin himself has personally dealt with this issue.

Touching upon the speculation around minefield maps, Pashinyan stated that not all maps in their possession have been returned. A small portion was given in response to the return of prisoners. He highlighted that this does not concern the maps that divide Armenia and Azerbaijan; rather, it pertains to areas that are behind Azerbaijani lines due to tragic events.

“We can state today that the process of returning prisoners has resumed. Currently, there are judicial proceedings underway in Azerbaijan; I do not rule out that our prisoners may be sentenced, but I want to bring the example of Karen Ghazaryan, who was sentenced but is now in his home in Berdavan. Therefore, we must not deviate from our path in any way,” Pashinyan added.

The meeting held by the Civil Contract party led by Nikol Pashinyan in Artashat concluded with a march.