Makunts Struggles to Connect with the Armenian Community in the U.S.

On the eve of September 21, ambassadors of Armenia were instructed not to hold receptions for Independence Day, except for the newly appointed Ambassador Lilit Makunts in the U.S., who hosted a colorful reception at the Armenian Embassy in Washington on September 30, marking the 30th anniversary of independence. Invited were members of the Armenian community who are close to her and unlikely to present unpleasant surprises from the community's side.

Reports indicate that Makunts is having difficulty connecting with the Armenian community as well as the Armenian Cause office and is facing serious challenges. The community is rejecting her, and under such circumstances, effective work is out of the question.

Arsen Kharatyan is attempting to support Makunts, but he lacks significant authority within the community, and his proposed 'media support' is not yielding the desired results. Although some representatives of community organizations have secretly met with Makunts, they hide this due to fears that they too might be subject to rejection from the community.

The euphoria from 2018 has almost left no trace within the American-Armenian community.