Pashinyan ally links opposition to Russian propaganda

Ruben Rubinyan, Vice-Speaker of Armenia’s National Assembly from the ruling Civil Contract party, stated that he is convinced the Armenian opposition “100% liked” the recent remarks made by Russian propagandist Vladimir Solovyov.

According to Caliber.Az, citing Armenian media, Rubinyan made the comments on February 11 during a regular session of parliament, where lawmakers were debating a bill proposing amendments and additions to the law “On Audiovisual Media.”

Addressing opposition claims that the proposed changes constitute repression by the authorities, Rubinyan rejected the accusation. “Against whom are we resorting to repression? Against Solovyov, who calls for military action against Armenia? Are you serious?” he said.

Rubinyan also pointed to what he described as a transformation in the opposition’s stance over the past five years. In his view, whereas previously the opposition at least attempted to conceal that it did not object to foreign interference in Armenia’s internal affairs, it now no longer hides that position.

“Is it bad that by law we are giving Armenia’s Television and Radio Commission the opportunity to protect Armenia from foreign interference? Is that bad? People are not foolish; they understand that you are the direct beneficiaries of foreign interference,” said the close ally of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

By Tamilla Hasanova