Opposition politician accuses Armenian authorities of undermining sovereignty

Homeland Party leader and former NSS chief Artur Vanetsyan has accused the Armenian authorities of accepting foreign funding and leading Armenia toward a loss of sovereignty.

In an interview with 24News on Thursday, Vanetsyan said he had “many questions” for Russia regarding Armenia’s security and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). His comments came in response to reports that the European Union had allocated funds to help the Armenian government counter so-called hybrid threats.

Vanetsyan dismissed government claims that the opposition seeks closer ties with Moscow at the expense of Armenia’s independence. Instead, he alleged that the authorities were using support from foreign states and intelligence services in ways that harm the country.

“They receive money from the European Union and other sources to allegedly fight hybrid attacks,” he said, claiming the funds were being used to undermine national values, the Armenian Apostolic Church and historical narratives. He accused the government of attempting to turn Armenia into a “Turkish vilayet”.

At the same time, Vanetsyan rejected accusations that the opposition wants to turn Armenia into a Russian “province,” emphasizing that the country’s sovereignty and independence are a “red line” for him.

He also stressed the importance of politicians maintaining constant dialogue with the public and refuting false reports.