U.S. State Department condemns Hayrikyan shooting

U.S. State Department Spokesperson Victoria Nuland has commented on the shooting of Armenian presidential candidate Paruyr Hayrikyan. 

When asked by a journalist about her position on this matter as well as about security ahead of the February 18th vote in Armenia, Ms Nuland said, “Well, obviously we condemn this violence. We understand that Paruyr Hairikian is in stable condition now after being shot by an unknown gunman and that the Armenian police have promised a full investigation. We understand that there are some reports now that there may be some postponement of the elections which were scheduled to take place on February 18th under constitutional provisions if he’s unable to campaign. We obviously call on Armenians to settle this constitutionally in a way that ensures that these elections go forward in a way that is free and fair and protects the rights of all candidates.”