Pashinyan warns of Russian-backed hybrid war on Armenia Yerevan sees Karapetyan as proxy voice

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has suggested that certain factions within Russia — and possibly other countries — may be involved in orchestrating hybrid warfare aimed at destabilising his government.

Speaking to reporters at the National Assembly, Pashinyan commented on recent remarks by businessman Samvel Karapetyan, which some members of Armenia’s ruling elite have interpreted as part of a broader campaign against the state, allegedly with foreign backing, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media sources.

“I cannot believe that such an operation against Armenia could come directly from the Kremlin or the Russian government,” the Prime Minister said, noting his ongoing working relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, which he described as based on mutual trust.

However, Pashinyan did not rule out other elements within Russia playing a role. “I do not exclude — and in fact consider it highly probable — that certain circles in Russia are behind these hybrid actions and this internal war,” he said. “And it’s not just in Russia — I believe there are similar forces in other countries as well.”

He stressed that Armenia is well-equipped to counter such pressures: “We have all the means and potential to manage these hybrid threats — and others beyond them.”

As a reminder, Armenian authorities have charged Russian-Armenian businessman Samvel Karapetyan with inciting the seizure of power, following his public criticism of the government and vocal support for the Armenian Apostolic Church.

The head of the Tashir Group of Companies is accused of threatening state authority after warning that “we will take part in this ourselves” if political leaders fail to stop attacks on the Church.

Karapetyan, through his lawyer Armen Feroyan, denies any criminal intent, insisting his comments were misinterpreted and did not constitute a call for power seizure. He had recently condemned what he called a smear campaign against the Church, describing it as a foundational part of Armenian identity.

The charges come as Prime Minister Pashinyan escalates a dispute with Karapetyan’s company, Electric Networks of Armenia, over widespread blackouts.

Pashinyan has threatened nationalisation and accused the firm of deliberately creating an energy crisis to destabilise the country.

Karapetyan’s residence has reportedly been searched, and several associates have been detained.

By Aghakazim Guliyev