Arman Yeghoyan: 'We Are on the Same Military Level as Azerbaijan'

During a meeting with journalists on January 13, Arman Yeghoyan, the chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on European Integration and a member of the ruling Civil Contract party, stated that the hot line established under the auspices of the EU in November 2021 is fully operational. This line was intended for use during potential escalatory periods between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

However, according to Yeghoyan, it is used only in specific cases when tensions escalate significantly. “This is due to many factors—geopolitical and international processes. After the latest escalation on January 11, there has been a calm period. Tensions have somewhat eased,” the legislator remarked, adding that the current situation is quite manageable.

Nevertheless, Yeghoyan was quick to remind that Armenia is “not Switzerland” and that its fortune has not been favorable with its neighbors. “Have we ever not had these problems? We have had a few issues over the years, but suddenly they just increased? In practice, nothing has changed. The problems are almost as many as they have always been. Have we never had tensions at the border? Is this the first time? Is this the first instance of gunfire at the border?” said the supporter of Prime Minister Pashinyan, seemingly overlooking the fact that during the current administration, not only thousands of mostly young people fell victim to war, but a capitulation statement was also signed.

At the same time, Yeghoyan believes that the recent escalations at the border are clear evidence of the restoration of the combat readiness of the Armenian Armed Forces. “Did you not see the footage from January 11? Did you see the destroyed ammunition depots of Azerbaijani soldiers?” the government representative questioned.

According to the legislator, Armenian soldiers are essentially on the same level as their adversaries: “You see, militarily, we are essentially at the same level,” Yeghoyan concluded.