Either a Turk or a Russian Vassal: Pashinyan

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan expressed his thoughts on the public perception of power dynamics in Armenia during a recent statement. He noted that for a long time, he has been intrigued by the notion that there are two primary groups within the country that criticize the government in a very specific manner, linked to foreign policies and preferences.

“Typically, one segment will accuse the authorities of being aligned with the Turks, while the other claims they are Russian vassals,” stated Pashinyan.

He raised questions regarding the underlying reasons and subconscious layers of such perceptions. “What does this imply, and why has the Persian aspect been forgotten over centuries?” he asked.

Pashinyan elaborated on the deeply rooted belief in Armenian society that a local cannot be in power. “In our subconscious, it seems impossible for an Armenian to hold authority. You understand, because our subconscious tells us that if you are in power and have governmental leverage, there is no other option – you are either a Turk or a Russian minion. The idea that an Armenian, a citizen of Armenia, could be in power in both its literal and metaphorical sense is not something our political memory suggests,” he added.