In Armenia, 15 people were arrested suspected of preparing a violent change of power. This was reported in the Investigative Committee of the country.
According to the statement of the department, among the detainees – persons accused of “planning the overthrow of the government” illegal methods. Among them – Archbishop Bagrat Blastanyan. All suspects were arrested by court decision.
Earlier, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said that the group, led by Archbishop Blastanyan, has prepared a “coup” since November 2024. Against these statements, the Armenian National Security Service conducted a series of detentions.
On May 4, 2024, at the call of the Armenian Apostolic Church, a group of citizens and politicians began march from the regions of Tavush and Shirak towards the capital of Yerevan under the leadership of the Archbishop of Blastanyan. Subsequently, throughout the country, especially in the capital, protests were held.
Pashinyan, having rejected calls for resignation, emphasized that the church should refrain from interference in the affairs of the state.
In addition, the president noted that the change of power is possible only through the elections.