The Movement is Waning, and Everyone is in Search of a Villain: Suren Petrosyan's First Commentary After 'Disappearing'

Tomorrow, I will hold a press conference and answer all questions. This was stated by Suren Petrosyan, one of the initiators of the 'Tavush for the Homeland' movement and the president of the Democratic Alliance party, in an interview with Tert.am.

'I understand that when the movement is waning or is going through failure, there is a need for scapegoats, as well as villains; I understand that everyone is in this search, and therefore I will hold a press conference tomorrow and address all questions in detail,' said Petrosyan.

He did not want to answer other questions, noting that he would address everything at the invited press conference.

It should be reminded that on June 12, following the police's use of special measures at the crossroads of Demirchyan-Bagramyan streets near the National Assembly, it became known that Suren Petrosyan had disappeared. Law enforcement agencies then reported that Petrosyan was not among those detained or arrested.

One day after the clashes, reports emerged that Petrosyan had established contact with his family.

By June 14, Suren Petrosyan had made a post on his Facebook page, stating that there could be no agreements involving him. 'The principles, values, and approaches that have been at the foundation of this struggle from the very beginning can never change under any circumstances, and therefore, it doesn't even make sense to think about this. Dear compatriots, friends, relatives, I thank those who have called and messaged during this time; I appreciate your concern and support. Our struggle continues. I will not deviate from my path,' he wrote.

That same evening, outside the courthouse, Petrosyan told journalists, 'At this moment, I will say very briefly; I ask for your understanding in this matter. There has been a long conversation, but to keep it short and clear, I will say that there can be no agreements regarding my person, even theoretically, outside of the processes. Attempts to intimidate or otherwise cannot influence this.'