Why Sargis Galstyan Decided to Return to Armenia After 7 Months

The newspaper ‘Hraparak’ reports: “Recently it became known that Sargis Galstyan, who remained in Stepanakert after the depopulation of Artsakh, was arrested on his way to Armenia with his wife and subsequently detained on charges of espionage.

It remains unclear why Galstyan chose to return to Armenia only seven months after the emptying of Artsakh. Relatives have not provided specific details. We were told that initially, Galstyan and his wife were urged by their relatives not to stay in Artsakh, and later on they were continually encouraged to leave. However, he always expressed hope that the forcibly displaced residents of Artsakh would eventually return, thanks to Russian mediation. In that case, he believed he would have a certain status in Artsakh since he had not left and could play some role.

Perhaps after seven months, he became convinced that there would be no return, leading to his decision to relocate. The couple, who had been living in the house of former Artsakh President Bako Sahakyan, with whom they have godfather-godchild ties, faced communication issues with their relatives in recent months. They last made contact about a month ago, stating that there were internet connectivity problems in Stepanakert. It was also surprising for the relatives when they learned that Galstyan had crossed the border and was detained in Armenia.

Interestingly, among the remaining residents of Artsakh, there are rumors that the few Armenians who stayed there are not being treated well by the Azerbaijanis, facing mockery and provocation.”