News Watch

A recent CRRC survey reveals Armenians overwhelmingly desire peace but expect war, amid deep security fears, political disillusionment, and shifting geopolitical loyalties. The data highlights public anxiety, fading optimism, and the complex legacy of war and diplomacy.

Vardan Ghukasyan, a controversial former mayor under criminal investigation, has returned to power in Gyumri with the backing of opposition factions, despite finishing second in the vote. The ruling party boycotted the vote and warned of an impending political crisis. Hranoush Dermoyan looks at Ghukasyan’s murky past.

Residents of Gyumri, Armenia’s second largest city and the small town of Parakar headed to the polls in snap municipal elections on March 30. Hranoush Dermoyan breaks down the preliminary results.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have finalized peace negotiations, with Yerevan accepting Baku’s proposals on the withdrawal of third-party forces on the border and all international legal claims. However, Baku insists Armenia amend its constitution to remove alleged territorial claims as a prerequisite to signing a peace treaty.

Armenia’s economy continued to grow in 2024, though at a slower pace, while foreign trade surged. Inflation remained low, and employment reached record levels. However, birth rates declined significantly, and net migration remained negative, reflecting broader demographic shifts. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explains.

Armenia's ongoing military reforms, initiated after the 2020 Artsakh War, focus on modernizing and professionalizing the Armed Forces to meet the country’s security challenges. The newly released 10-year Concept outlines strategies for structural transformation, improving education, incentivizing service and enhancing civilian oversight.

Donald Trump’s return to the White House could profoundly impact U.S.-Armenia relations, raising questions about the strategic partnership, regional alliances, and the influence of his administration’s key figures on Armenian issues. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explains.

Armenia and the U.S. have signed a Strategic Partnership Commission charter, committing to deepen security ties, economic cooperation, and democratic reforms. This milestone signals a more diversified foreign policy, emphasizing sovereignty, regional security and collaboration with Washington amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.

Armenia’s prospective contribution of civilian or military personnel to EU peacekeeping missions builds on two decades of experience in peacekeeping and other international efforts. Hovhannes Nazaretyan reflects on this legacy and its broader implications.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan dismissed six high-ranking officials, citing systemic issues and stalled reforms in law enforcement and the judiciary. Key replacements so far include Arpine Sargsyan as Interior Minister and Davit Khudatyan as Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure. Hovhannes Nazaretyan explains.