14:00 News in One Line: New Biometric Passports, Secret Documents of UAVs

Last hour's news summarized and substantive.

• The introduction of a new generation of biometric passports has been discussed in the National Assembly. The Minister of Internal Affairs has stated that the previous "biometric" passports did not meet international standards. The new passports are expected to be implemented in the autumn of 2026.
• The Parliament has adopted a bill to tighten penalties for illegal drug trafficking. In cases of particularly large amounts, online sales, and involvement of minors, sentences of up to 15 years of imprisonment are envisaged.
• Lawyer Ara Zahrabyan has announced that dismissed Arman Sargasyan has withdrawn about 15 million drams from the community's account without legal grounds. He stated that the courts and the enforcement service are exhibiting biased behavior.
• Nikol Pashinyan and Tigran Avinyan campaigned in the administrative districts of Erebuni and Nubarashen. Citizens raised issues concerning Jermuk, border issues, and the pollution of the Getar River.
• During the Prosperous Armenia campaign, Gagik Tsarukyan addressed topics of security and peace. He expressed concern over Azerbaijan's statements and the decline of the country’s international reputation.
• Daniel Ioannisyan criticized the statements of Russian state television regarding Armenia's elections, emphasizing that Russia cannot give lessons on democracy to Armenia.
• The United Kingdom has expanded its list of anti-Russian sanctions by adding 85 more positions. Meanwhile, the European Union is discussing a new sanctions package against Russia.