Tsarukyan says businesses linked to him were halted to pressure him

Detained Armenian opposition leader, businessman and philanthropist Gagik Tsarukyan has accused the authorities of using businesses linked to him as a means of political pressure, alleging that the suspension of their operations is intended to punish him personally rather than enforce the law.

In a statement released while in pretrial detention on Wednesday, Tsarukyan, the leader of the Prosperous Armenia Party, thanked the public figures who have expressed support for him, describing their backing as a gesture he "will never forget."

He said the outpouring of support prompted him to reflect on Armenia's potential, arguing that the country has the talent and resources to regain its confidence and achieve success across culture, science, sports and other fields.

Tsarukyan devoted much of his statement to the impact he says the measures have had on companies associated with him. He insisted that the criminal case against him bears no connection to those enterprises and said he had stepped away from their management years ago.

"My greatest concern is that people have been deprived of the opportunity to go to work and earn their daily living," Tsarukyan said. "These are productive businesses that create value, yet their operations have been brought to a halt. It is obvious to everyone that the unlawful suspension of these enterprises is intended to cause me personal harm."

He argued that the shutdowns have affected thousands of employees and disrupted the operations of tens of thousands of business partners, calling the consequences damaging not only to workers but to Armenia's economy.

Tsarukyan also reflected on the construction of the planned Christ the Savior monument, a project he has long sponsored. He said he is already considering preparations for its official opening, including the formation of an organizing committee and invitations to international dignitaries, prominent public figures, official delegations, and representatives of different countries and faiths.

According to Tsarukyan, several internationally recognized figures have already confirmed their intention to attend the unveiling.

He said he believes the monument will usher in "a new and brighter chapter" for Armenia, expressing hope that it will serve as a symbol of national unity, renewal and the country's engagement with the wider world.