Armenia
Last updated: June 10, 2026
Armenia is a landlocked nation in the South Caucasus region of Western Asia, bordered by Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey. With a population of approximately 3 million, Armenia is one of the world’s oldest Christian civilizations, having adopted Christianity as its state religion in 301 CE—the first country to do so. The capital and largest city is Yerevan, located in the central part of the country. Armenia’s geography is characterized by the Armenian Highlands, a mountainous region with an average elevation exceeding 1,600 meters. The country is known for its rich cultural heritage, including ancient churches, monasteries, and archaeological sites. Armenia is a member of numerous international organizations including the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and the Eurasian Economic Union.
In the context of Groong’s coverage, Armenia is a landlocked South Caucasus republic facing an acute strategic and political crisis. Since the 2020 44-Day War , the country has lost control of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh) and hundreds of square kilometers of territory to Azerbaijan, undergone the complete ethnic cleansing of more than 150,000 Armenian inhabitants from Artsakh, and seen its borders redrawn under duress. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his Civil Contract party have governed through this catastrophe while pursuing what opponents describe as a capitulation strategy: signing ceasefire agreements, negotiating territorial concessions, and attempting to normalize relations with Turkey despite no reciprocal gesture. The government frames this course as realism and peace-building; critics argue it surrenders Armenian sovereignty without securing the rights or security of displaced Artsakhtsis. Armenia’s relationship with its traditional security guarantor Russia has deteriorated sharply, while its pivot toward the European Union and United States remains hesitant and incomplete, leaving the country in a precarious middle position between Moscow and the West.
Domestic politics in Armenia since 2021 have been dominated by the opposition’s demand for Pashinyan’s resignation and accountability for the war’s loss. The Established Opposition parties—Strong Armenia , Armenia Alliance (Hayastan Dashinq) , Prosperous Armenia , and the Republican Party of Armenia —have held street protests, mounted electoral challenges, and attempted to build coalitions for the June 7, 2026 parliamentary elections. Civil Contract’s supermajority in parliament has allowed it to pass constitutional amendments, strip opposition figures of immunity, and advance its agenda despite sustained criticism over corruption, misuse of administrative resources, and alleged election irregularities. The government has also escalated confrontation with the Armenian Church , arresting clergy, seizing church property, and pressuring the Catholicos , actions that have alarmed international observers and divided public opinion. Simultaneously, Pashinyan has consolidated control over state institutions, including the judiciary and security services, raising concerns about democratic backsliding and rule of law.
Armenia’s economy remains fragile. Growth statistics mask structural weaknesses: the country is heavily dependent on remittances and Russian trade, faces declining foreign investment, carries rising national debt, and has seen its ties to Iran—a key trade and energy partner—complicated by U.S. pressure over TRIPP, the so-called Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity . The project aims to open transport corridors through Armenian territory in Syunik province, a move that would connect Azerbaijan to Turkey via Armenian land and raise questions about Armenian sovereignty over the route and control of its security. Russia has shifted from enthusiastic support of the corridor to public ambivalence, while Iran has issued explicit warnings that it will not accept any arrangement that bypasses or threatens its interests. The competing pressures from Washington, Moscow, Tehran, and Baku leave Armenia’s leadership navigating impossible choices between security guarantees that do not yet exist and economic partnerships that require territorial and strategic concessions it is reluctant to make permanent. The 2026 election will determine whether Armenian voters remain committed to Pashinyan’s course or whether opposition forces can forge a unified alternative around themes of security, sovereignty, and the rights of displaced Artsakhtsis to return home.
Groong episodes that include this tag
Below are all Groong episodes tagged with Armenia.
Anna Karapetyan | Peace Treaty and more Aliyev Demands | James O’Brien in Yerevan | Srbazan Movement | Ep 335 - June 9, 2024 [EP335]
Posted on Tuesday, Jun 11, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Economy, Genocide, Ukraine, Geopolitics, Human Rights, Iran | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Peace Treaty and more Aliyev Demands
- James OâBrien in Yerevan
- Russia Armenia Relations
- Srbazan Movement
Episode 335 | Recorded: June 10, 2024
Anna Karapetyan | Peace Treaty and more Aliyev Demands | James O’Brien in Yerevan | Srbazan Movement | Ep 335 - June 9, 2024 [EP335]
Posted on Tuesday, Jun 11, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Economy, Genocide, Ukraine, Geopolitics, Human Rights, IranGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Peace Treaty and more Aliyev Demands
- James OâBrien in Yerevan
- Russia Armenia Relations
- Srbazan Movement
Episode 335 | Recorded: June 10, 2024
Arthur Martirosyan | Heavy Rainstorms and Flood, Srbazan Movement Church and State, Geopolitical Developments | Ep 334 - June 2, 2024 [EP334]
Posted on Tuesday, Jun 4, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Azerbaijan, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Armenian Church, Georgia, Russia, Turkey, Genocide, China, Iran, Middle East, Ukraine | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Heavy Rainstorms Flood Northern Armenia
- Bagrat Srbazan Movement
- Church and State
- Geopolitical Developments
- Rights and Security for Artsakh Armenians
Episode 334 | Recorded: June 3, 2024
Arthur Martirosyan | Heavy Rainstorms and Flood, Srbazan Movement Church and State, Geopolitical Developments | Ep 334 - June 2, 2024 [EP334]
Posted on Tuesday, Jun 4, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Azerbaijan, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Armenian Church, Georgia, Russia, Turkey, Genocide, China, Iran, Middle East, UkraineGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Heavy Rainstorms Flood Northern Armenia
- Bagrat Srbazan Movement
- Church and State
- Geopolitical Developments
- Rights and Security for Artsakh Armenians
Episode 334 | Recorded: June 3, 2024
Sergei Melkonian - Iran President and FM Killed in Helicopter Crash | Bagrat Srbazan Leads Mass Protests in Armenia | Armenian Russian Relations | Ep 333 - May 26, 2024 [EP333]
Posted on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, India, Armenian Church, Israel, Turkey, Middle East, Ukraine, European Union, Georgia, Human Rights, NATO | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Iran President and FM Killed in Helicopter Crash
- Bagrat Srbazan Leads Mass Protests in Armenia
- Armenian Russian Relations
Episode 333 | Recorded: May 27, 2024
Sergei Melkonian - Iran President and FM Killed in Helicopter Crash | Bagrat Srbazan Leads Mass Protests in Armenia | Armenian Russian Relations | Ep 333 - May 26, 2024 [EP333]
Posted on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, India, Armenian Church, Israel, Turkey, Middle East, Ukraine, European Union, Georgia, Human Rights, NATOGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Iran President and FM Killed in Helicopter Crash
- Bagrat Srbazan Leads Mass Protests in Armenia
- Armenian Russian Relations
Episode 333 | Recorded: May 27, 2024
Archil Sikharulidze - Georgian Law on Foreign Agents | Tavush Movement in Armenia | Parallels in Foreign Influence | Ep 332 - May 26, 2024 [EP332]
Posted on Sunday, May 26, 2024 | Category: Georgia, Armenia, Russia, European Union, NATO, Iran, Turkey, Ukraine, Human Rights, China, Economy, Genocide | Series: cog
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Georgian Law on Foreign Agents
- Politics and Diplomacy of Armenia
- Parallels and Lessons from Georgia
Episode 332 | Recorded: May 25, 2024
Archil Sikharulidze - Georgian Law on Foreign Agents | Tavush Movement in Armenia | Parallels in Foreign Influence | Ep 332 - May 26, 2024 [EP332]
Posted on Sunday, May 26, 2024 | Category: Georgia, Armenia, Russia, European Union, NATO, Iran, Turkey, Ukraine, Human Rights, China, Economy, GenocideGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Georgian Law on Foreign Agents
- Politics and Diplomacy of Armenia
- Parallels and Lessons from Georgia
Episode 332 | Recorded: May 25, 2024
Hrant Mikaelian - Tavush Protests Gain Momentum | Pashinyan Pressing Ahead with Land Concessions | Poll Results on Protests | Ep 331 - May 19, 2024 [EP331]
Posted on Sunday, May 19, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Poll, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, Georgia, Iran, NATO, China, Human Rights, Turkey, Ukraine | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Tavush Protests Gain Momentum
- Pashinyan Pressing Ahead with Land Concessions
- Poll Results on Tavush Protests
Episode 331 | Recorded: May 18, 2024
Hrant Mikaelian - Tavush Protests Gain Momentum | Pashinyan Pressing Ahead with Land Concessions | Poll Results on Protests | Ep 331 - May 19, 2024 [EP331]
Posted on Sunday, May 19, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Poll, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, Georgia, Iran, NATO, China, Human Rights, Turkey, UkraineGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Tavush Protests Gain Momentum
- Pashinyan Pressing Ahead with Land Concessions
- Poll Results on Tavush Protests
Episode 331 | Recorded: May 18, 2024
Sopo Japaridze - USSR: A Common Home & History | Georgia’s Foreign Agent Bill | Armenian Georgian Relations | Ep 330 - May 18, 2024 [EP330]
Posted on Saturday, May 18, 2024 | Category: Georgia, Armenia, USSR, Armenian Genocide, Russia, Turkey, China, Genocide, NATO, Ukraine, Iran, Israel, European Union, Human Rights | Series: cog
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- USSR: A common Home & History
- Georgiaâs Foreign Agent Bill
- Armenia-Georgian Relations
Episode 330 | Recorded: May 17, 2024
Sopo Japaridze - USSR: A Common Home & History | Georgia’s Foreign Agent Bill | Armenian Georgian Relations | Ep 330 - May 18, 2024 [EP330]
Posted on Saturday, May 18, 2024 | Category: Georgia, Armenia, USSR, Armenian Genocide, Russia, Turkey, China, Genocide, NATO, Ukraine, Iran, Israel, European Union, Human RightsGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- USSR: A common Home & History
- Georgiaâs Foreign Agent Bill
- Armenia-Georgian Relations
Episode 330 | Recorded: May 17, 2024
Tevan Poghosyan - Bagrat Srbazan Brings Masses to the Streets | Armenia Azerbaijan Talks Continue | Ep 329 - May 12, 2024 [EP329]
Posted on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, Russia, Iran, China, Israel | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Bagrat Srbazan Brings Masses To the Streets
- Armenia Azerbaijan Talks Continue
Episode 329 | Recorded: May 14, 2024
Tevan Poghosyan - Bagrat Srbazan Brings Masses to the Streets | Armenia Azerbaijan Talks Continue | Ep 329 - May 12, 2024 [EP329]
Posted on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, Russia, Iran, China, IsraelGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Bagrat Srbazan Brings Masses To the Streets
- Armenia Azerbaijan Talks Continue
Episode 329 | Recorded: May 14, 2024
Dziunik Aghajanian - Tavush Demarcation and Delimitation | Bagrat Srbazan Heads to Yerevan | Hungary Blocks EU Aid to Armenia | Ep 328 - May 5, 2024 [EP328]
Posted on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Azerbaijan, Nagorno Karabakh, Turkey, Armenian Church, Russia, NATO, European Union, Human Rights, Iran, Genocide, Ukraine | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Tavush Demarcation and Delimitation
- Bagrat Srbazan Coming to Yerevan
- Hungary Blocks EU Aid to Armenia
Episode 328 | Recorded: May 5, 2024
Dziunik Aghajanian - Tavush Demarcation and Delimitation | Bagrat Srbazan Heads to Yerevan | Hungary Blocks EU Aid to Armenia | Ep 328 - May 5, 2024 [EP328]
Posted on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Azerbaijan, Nagorno Karabakh, Turkey, Armenian Church, Russia, NATO, European Union, Human Rights, Iran, Genocide, UkraineGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Tavush Demarcation and Delimitation
- Bagrat Srbazan Coming to Yerevan
- Hungary Blocks EU Aid to Armenia
Episode 328 | Recorded: May 5, 2024
Benyamin Poghosyan, Rananjay Anand - Indian-Armenian Relations in 2024 | Ep 327 - May 2, 2024 [EP327]
Posted on Friday, May 3, 2024 | Category: India, Armenia, Relations, Politics, Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Georgia, Russia, European Union, Economy, Israel, Middle East, Geopolitics, Ukraine, China, NATO | Series: cog
Groong Links:
Guests:
Topics:
- Impressions: Raisina 2024 Dialogue
- Indian Community
- Trade Opportunities
- Defense & Security
Episode 327 | Recorded: April 26, 2024
Benyamin Poghosyan, Rananjay Anand - Indian-Armenian Relations in 2024 | Ep 327 - May 2, 2024 [EP327]
Posted on Friday, May 3, 2024 | Category: India, Armenia, Relations, Politics, Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Georgia, Russia, European Union, Economy, Israel, Middle East, Geopolitics, Ukraine, China, NATOGroong Links:
Guests:
Topics:
- Impressions: Raisina 2024 Dialogue
- Indian Community
- Trade Opportunities
- Defense & Security
Episode 327 | Recorded: April 26, 2024
Edgar Elbakyan - 109th Commemorations of the Armenian Genocide | Pashinyan Concedes Tavush Territories | Russia Withdrawing Peacekeepers from Artsakh | Ep 326 - Apr 21, 2024 [EP326]
Posted on Thursday, Apr 25, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Artsakh Blockade, Armenian Genocide, European Union, Genocide, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, Geopolitics | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- 109th Commemorations of the Armenian Genocide
- Pashinyan Concedes Tavush Territories
- Russia Withdrawing Peacekeepers from Artsakh
Episode 326 | Recorded: April 24, 2024
Edgar Elbakyan - 109th Commemorations of the Armenian Genocide | Pashinyan Concedes Tavush Territories | Russia Withdrawing Peacekeepers from Artsakh | Ep 326 - Apr 21, 2024 [EP326]
Posted on Thursday, Apr 25, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Artsakh Blockade, Armenian Genocide, European Union, Genocide, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, GeopoliticsGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- 109th Commemorations of the Armenian Genocide
- Pashinyan Concedes Tavush Territories
- Russia Withdrawing Peacekeepers from Artsakh
Episode 326 | Recorded: April 24, 2024
Rafael Ishkhanyan - Political Prisoners in Armenia | Armenia’s Hate Speech Laws | Cases: Samuel Vardanyan. Narek Malyan. Armen Grigorian | Ep 325 - Apr 22, 2024 [EP325]
Posted on Monday, Apr 22, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Spotlight on Silence, Political Prisoners, Human Rights, Artsakh Blockade, NATO, Geopolitics, Iran, Turkey | Series: sos, video
Groong Links:
Topics:
- Political Prisoners in Armenia
- Armenia’s Hate Speech Laws
- Cases
- Samuel Vardanyan
- Narek Malyan
- Armen Grigorian
Guest:
Episode 325 | Recorded: April 20, 2024
Rafael Ishkhanyan - Political Prisoners in Armenia | Armenia’s Hate Speech Laws | Cases: Samuel Vardanyan. Narek Malyan. Armen Grigorian | Ep 325 - Apr 22, 2024 [EP325]
Posted on Monday, Apr 22, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Spotlight on Silence, Political Prisoners, Human Rights, Artsakh Blockade, NATO, Geopolitics, Iran, TurkeyGroong Links:
Topics:
- Political Prisoners in Armenia
- Armenia’s Hate Speech Laws
- Cases
- Samuel Vardanyan
- Narek Malyan
- Armen Grigorian
Guest:
Episode 325 | Recorded: April 20, 2024
Benyamin Poghosyan - Genocide Denial by the Armenian Government | Armenia Azerbaijan Talks | Iran Amidst Conflicts | Political Prisoners | Ep 324 - Apr 14, 2024 [EP324]
Posted on Wednesday, Apr 17, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Iran, Israel, Armenian Genocide, Genocide, Russia, Turkey, Syria, Middle East, Georgia, Ukraine, European Union, Human Rights, Geopolitics, NATO | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Armenia Azerbaijan Talks
- Iran Amidst Conflicts
- Political Prisoners
Episode 324 | Recorded: April 16, 2024
Benyamin Poghosyan - Genocide Denial by the Armenian Government | Armenia Azerbaijan Talks | Iran Amidst Conflicts | Political Prisoners | Ep 324 - Apr 14, 2024 [EP324]
Posted on Wednesday, Apr 17, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Iran, Israel, Armenian Genocide, Genocide, Russia, Turkey, Syria, Middle East, Georgia, Ukraine, European Union, Human Rights, Geopolitics, NATOGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Armenia Azerbaijan Talks
- Iran Amidst Conflicts
- Political Prisoners
Episode 324 | Recorded: April 16, 2024
Anna Karapetyan - Trilateral US-EU-Armenia Meeting | Talks with Azerbaijan | Relations with Russia in Free fall | Pashinyan Suppressing Artsakh Leadership | Ep 323 - Apr 7, 2024 [EP323]
Posted on Tuesday, Apr 9, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, USA, Artsakh Blockade, European Union, NATO, Turkey, Economy, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, India | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Trilateral US-EU-Armenia Meeting
- Talks with Azerbaijan
- Tavush: What has Pashinyan Promised
- Relations with Russia in Freefall
- Pashinyan Suppressing Artsakh Leadership
Episode 323 | Recorded: April 8, 2024
Anna Karapetyan - Trilateral US-EU-Armenia Meeting | Talks with Azerbaijan | Relations with Russia in Free fall | Pashinyan Suppressing Artsakh Leadership | Ep 323 - Apr 7, 2024 [EP323]
Posted on Tuesday, Apr 9, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, USA, Artsakh Blockade, European Union, NATO, Turkey, Economy, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, IndiaGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Trilateral US-EU-Armenia Meeting
- Talks with Azerbaijan
- Tavush: What has Pashinyan Promised
- Relations with Russia in Freefall
- Pashinyan Suppressing Artsakh Leadership
Episode 323 | Recorded: April 8, 2024
Full Transcript: Markus Ritter - European Union Mission in Armenia | Ep 322
Posted on Tuesday, Apr 2, 2024 | Category: EU, Armenia | Series: BlogThe following is a transcript from Episode 322 where we conduct an in-depth interview with Dr. Markus Ritter, the head of the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMA) in Armenia. Dr. Ritter provides detailed explanations regarding the mission’s activities, its role in calming tensions along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border, and the challenges it faces amidst regional dynamics. Covering specific incidents and addressing criticisms, Dr. Ritter offers transparency on the mission’s operations, emphasizing its commitment to contributing to peace and stability in the region.
Markus Ritter - The European Union Mission in Armenia | Ep 322 - Mar 29, 2024 [EP322]
Posted on Friday, Mar 29, 2024 | Category: EU, Armenia, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia, European Union, Turkey, Georgia | Series: cog, video
Groong Links:
Topics:
- Mission Details
- Mission & Goals
- Operational Details
- Communication
- Immunity
- Perceptions from Neighboring Countries
- Incidents
- August 15 ,2023
- Nerkin Hand
Guest:
Episode 322 | Recorded: March 26, 2024
Markus Ritter - The European Union Mission in Armenia | Ep 322 - Mar 29, 2024 [EP322]
Posted on Friday, Mar 29, 2024 | Category: EU, Armenia, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia, European Union, Turkey, GeorgiaGroong Links:
Topics:
- Mission Details
- Mission & Goals
- Operational Details
- Communication
- Immunity
- Perceptions from Neighboring Countries
- Incidents
- August 15 ,2023
- Nerkin Hand
Guest:
Episode 322 | Recorded: March 26, 2024
Paul Cormarie - Can the US Guarantee Armenia's Security? | Ep 321 - Mar 27, 2024 [EP321]
Posted on Wednesday, Mar 27, 2024 | Category: USA, Armenia, Video, Politics, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Iran, Russia, Georgia, Armenian Genocide, Ukraine, NATO, Economy, Israel, Middle East, Genocide, Syria, India | Series: cog, video
Groong Links:
Topics:
- US Strategic Interests in the South Caucasus
- The Challenge of Armeniaâs Neighborhood
- Weaponry that could help Armenia
- Clear Expectations and Limits
- The Turkish Factor
- The Iranian Factor
Guest:
Episode 321 | Recorded: March 26, 2024
Paul Cormarie - Can the US Guarantee Armenia's Security? | Ep 321 - Mar 27, 2024 [EP321]
Posted on Wednesday, Mar 27, 2024 | Category: USA, Armenia, Video, Politics, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Iran, Russia, Georgia, Armenian Genocide, Ukraine, NATO, Economy, Israel, Middle East, Genocide, Syria, IndiaGroong Links:
Topics:
- US Strategic Interests in the South Caucasus
- The Challenge of Armeniaâs Neighborhood
- Weaponry that could help Armenia
- Clear Expectations and Limits
- The Turkish Factor
- The Iranian Factor
Guest:
Episode 321 | Recorded: March 26, 2024
Tevan Poghosyan - Political Prisoners in Armenia | Stoltenberg in the South Caucasus | Pashinyan in Tavush | Ep 320 - Mar 24, 2024 [EP320]
Posted on Monday, Mar 25, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Iran, NATO, Georgia, Ukraine, Genocide, Human Rights, Economy | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Terror Attack in Moscow
- Growing List of Political Prisoners in Armenia
- Narek Samsonyan & Vazgen Saghatelyan brutally arrested
- Narek Malyan Exonerated, Remains Jailed
- Pashinyan in Tavush
- Stoltenbergâs in the South Caucasus
Episode 320 | Recorded: March 25, 2024
Tevan Poghosyan - Political Prisoners in Armenia | Stoltenberg in the South Caucasus | Pashinyan in Tavush | Ep 320 - Mar 24, 2024 [EP320]
Posted on Monday, Mar 25, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Iran, NATO, Georgia, Ukraine, Genocide, Human Rights, EconomyGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Terror Attack in Moscow
- Growing List of Political Prisoners in Armenia
- Narek Samsonyan & Vazgen Saghatelyan brutally arrested
- Narek Malyan Exonerated, Remains Jailed
- Pashinyan in Tavush
- Stoltenbergâs in the South Caucasus
Episode 320 | Recorded: March 25, 2024
Tatul Manaseryan: Armenia's Economic Diversification | Corruption | Bank Secrecy | Ep 319 - Mar 23, 2024 [EP319]
Posted on Saturday, Mar 23, 2024 | Category: Economy, Armenia, Economy, Russia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Geopolitics, European Union, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, China, Middle East, Human Rights | Series: cog
Groong Links:
Topics:
- Economic Diversification
- Systemic Corruption
- Bank Secrecy Scrapped
Guest:
Episode 319 | Recorded: March 16, 2024
Tatul Manaseryan: Armenia's Economic Diversification | Corruption | Bank Secrecy | Ep 319 - Mar 23, 2024 [EP319]
Posted on Saturday, Mar 23, 2024 | Category: Economy, Armenia, Economy, Russia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Geopolitics, European Union, Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, China, Middle East, Human RightsGroong Links:
Topics:
- Economic Diversification
- Systemic Corruption
- Bank Secrecy Scrapped
Guest:
Episode 319 | Recorded: March 16, 2024
Arthur G Martirosyan - Impressions of Canadian Amb. Interview | More Concessions by Pashinyan | EU Resolution for Armenia | Systemic Corruption | Ep 318 - Mar 18, 2024 [EP318]
Posted on Tuesday, Mar 19, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Iran, Artsakh Blockade, European Union, Ukraine, Georgia, Genocide, Economy, Middle East, Syria, Human Rights | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Reactions to Interview with Canadian Ambassador
- More Concessions Signaled by Pashinyan
- EU Parliament Resolution on Armenia
- Fish Rots from the Head
Episode 318 | Recorded: March 18, 2024
Arthur G Martirosyan - Impressions of Canadian Amb. Interview | More Concessions by Pashinyan | EU Resolution for Armenia | Systemic Corruption | Ep 318 - Mar 18, 2024 [EP318]
Posted on Tuesday, Mar 19, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Iran, Artsakh Blockade, European Union, Ukraine, Georgia, Genocide, Economy, Middle East, Syria, Human RightsGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Reactions to Interview with Canadian Ambassador
- More Concessions Signaled by Pashinyan
- EU Parliament Resolution on Armenia
- Fish Rots from the Head
Episode 318 | Recorded: March 18, 2024
Hrant Mikaelian - Analysis of Recent MPG and IRI Poll Results| Ep 317 - Feb 17, 2024 [EP317]
Posted on Monday, Mar 18, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Poll, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, NATO, Russia, Turkey, Iran, Economy, European Union, China, Genocide, Georgia, Israel, Syria, India | Series: cog, video
Groong Links:
Topics:
- IRI Poll, December 2023
- MPG Poll, February 2024
Guest:
Topics:
Episode 317 | Recorded: March 16, 2024
Hrant Mikaelian - Analysis of Recent MPG and IRI Poll Results| Ep 317 - Feb 17, 2024 [EP317]
Posted on Monday, Mar 18, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Poll, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, NATO, Russia, Turkey, Iran, Economy, European Union, China, Genocide, Georgia, Israel, Syria, IndiaGroong Links:
Topics:
- IRI Poll, December 2023
- MPG Poll, February 2024
Guest:
Topics:
Episode 317 | Recorded: March 16, 2024
Amb. Andrew Turner - Establishment of Canadian Embassy in Armenia | EU Monitoring Mission | Political Prisoners | Canadian Mil. Supplies to Turkey | Ep 316 - Mar 16, 2024 [EP316]
Posted on Saturday, Mar 16, 2024 | Category: Canada, Armenia, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Armenian Genocide, Artsakh Blockade, NATO, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, Iran, Genocide, Syria, Middle East, Georgia, Human Rights, China, Economy, European Union | Series: cog, video
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Establishment of Canadian Embassy in Armenia
- EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA)
- Political Prisoners
- Canadian Military Supplies to Turkey
Episode 316 | Recorded: March 15, 2024
Amb. Andrew Turner - Establishment of Canadian Embassy in Armenia | EU Monitoring Mission | Political Prisoners | Canadian Mil. Supplies to Turkey | Ep 316 - Mar 16, 2024 [EP316]
Posted on Saturday, Mar 16, 2024 | Category: Canada, Armenia, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Armenian Genocide, Artsakh Blockade, NATO, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, Iran, Genocide, Syria, Middle East, Georgia, Human Rights, China, Economy, European UnionGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Establishment of Canadian Embassy in Armenia
- EU Monitoring Mission in Armenia (EUMA)
- Political Prisoners
- Canadian Military Supplies to Turkey
Episode 316 | Recorded: March 15, 2024
Pashinyan regime's EU aspirations
Posted on Wednesday, Mar 13, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Clip, Transcript | Series: BlogIn this clip from episode #313 , we discuss Pashinyan’s bold move towards EU membership is risking its relationships with key allies like Russia and neighboring Iran. Recent statements hint at Armenia’s serious consideration of joining the EU, alongside actions like freezing activity in the CSTO and inviting Russian forces out of an airport.
Join us as we navigate the risks and uncertainties surrounding Armenia’s daring foreign policy decisions.
Archil Sikharulidze - Georgia, Armenia, Partnership & Politics in the South Caucasus | Ep 315 - Mar 13, 2024 [EP315]
Posted on Wednesday, Mar 13, 2024 | Category: Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, India, European Union, NATO, Ukraine, Iran, Genocide, Economy, Human Rights | Series: cog
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Georgian Nationalism and Identity
- Georgia, Armenia, post 2018
- Accession to the EU
- Strategic Partnership
Episode 315 | Recorded: March 12, 2024
Archil Sikharulidze - Georgia, Armenia, Partnership & Politics in the South Caucasus | Ep 315 - Mar 13, 2024 [EP315]
Posted on Wednesday, Mar 13, 2024 | Category: Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, India, European Union, NATO, Ukraine, Iran, Genocide, Economy, Human RightsGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Georgian Nationalism and Identity
- Georgia, Armenia, post 2018
- Accession to the EU
- Strategic Partnership
Episode 315 | Recorded: March 12, 2024
Ehsan Movahedian - Iran Parliamentary Elections | Geopolitical U-Turn in Armenia? | Iran Armenia Relations | Anti-Iranian Propaganda from NGOs| Ep 314 - Mar 12, 2024 [EP314]
Posted on Wednesday, Mar 13, 2024 | Category: Iran, Armenia, Middle East, Nagorno Karabakh, Artsakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkey, India, Georgia, NATO, Israel, Economy, European Union, Geopolitics, Lebanon, Syria, Ukraine | Series: cog
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Iran Parliamentary Elections
- Geopolitical U-turn in Armenia?
- Iran Armenia Relations
- Anti-Iranian Propaganda from NGOs
Episode 314 | Recorded: March 11, 2024
Ehsan Movahedian - Iran Parliamentary Elections | Geopolitical U-Turn in Armenia? | Iran Armenia Relations | Anti-Iranian Propaganda from NGOs| Ep 314 - Mar 12, 2024 [EP314]
Posted on Wednesday, Mar 13, 2024 | Category: Iran, Armenia, Middle East, Nagorno Karabakh, Artsakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkey, India, Georgia, NATO, Israel, Economy, European Union, Geopolitics, Lebanon, Syria, UkraineGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Iran Parliamentary Elections
- Geopolitical U-turn in Armenia?
- Iran Armenia Relations
- Anti-Iranian Propaganda from NGOs
Episode 314 | Recorded: March 11, 2024
Dziunik Aghajanian - Vazgen Sargsyan | Stalled With Enemies and Allies | Looking for New Friends | Ep 313 - Mar 10, 2024 [EP313]
Posted on Tuesday, Mar 12, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Iran, European Union, Israel, Ukraine, Economy, Georgia, NATO | Series: wir, video
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Armenia Stalled
- Stalled with Enemies
- Stalled with Allies
- Economic Diversification
- Fish Rots from the Head
Episode 313 | Recorded: Mar 11, 2024
Dziunik Aghajanian - Vazgen Sargsyan | Stalled With Enemies and Allies | Looking for New Friends | Ep 313 - Mar 10, 2024 [EP313]
Posted on Tuesday, Mar 12, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Russia, Iran, European Union, Israel, Ukraine, Economy, Georgia, NATOGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Armenia Stalled
- Stalled with Enemies
- Stalled with Allies
- Economic Diversification
- Fish Rots from the Head
Episode 313 | Recorded: Mar 11, 2024
Transcript: In the South Caucasus, “The West“ means Turkey
Posted on Friday, Mar 8, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Clip, Transcript | Series: BlogThe dialogue at the Antalya Diplomatic Forum illuminates a critical facet of EU’s geopolitical calculus: when they speak of “The West” in the context of the South Caucasus, they implicitly refer to Turkey. We dissect Armenia’s diplomatic challenges, laying bare the stark realities of power dynamics in the region. Against the backdrop of Turkey’s strategic significance, the debate underscores the profound implications of EU’s reliance on Ankara to assert its dominance and open communication channels in the region. We shed light on the urgent need for Armenia to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape where alliances and allegiances are constantly shifting.
Transcript: On Interview with Jean-Christophe Buisson (Deputy Editor of Le Figaro)
Posted on Friday, Mar 8, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Clip, Transcript | Series: BlogIn this clip from episode 312, Arthur Khachikyan discusses his recent interview with Jean-Christophe Buisson, deputy editor of Le Figaro, a highly influential French newspaper with close ties to Macron and other French leaders. Arthur, the interviewer, highlights the deputy editor’s strong support for the Armenian people but underscores France’s unwillingness to intervene militarily in conflicts involving Armenia due to domestic and geopolitical constraints.
Transcript: Expert Discussions on Russian-Armenian Relations
Posted on Thursday, Mar 7, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Russia, Politics, Clip, Transcript | Series: BlogIn this clip from episode #312 , we discuss a recent Russian-Armenian experts dialogue held in Yerevan, discussions delved into the state of relations between the two nations. Our guest Arthur Khachikyan was one of the participants.
The expert dialogue sparked significant reactions in Armenia, with some media channels expressing negativity towards the candid exchanges that took place. The Russian side was nota bly frank, warning of potential consequences for Armenia’s Western reorientation, referencing past events like Karabakh and suggesting future territorial concerns. The dialogue
Read MoreTranscript: Russian Warnings: Assessing Armenia's Geopolitical Choices
Posted on Sunday, Mar 3, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Clip, Transcript | Series: BlogOn February 24, a group of Russian and Armenian experts met in Congress hotel in Yerevan to discuss the state of Armenia-Russia relations. The discussion was friendly but tough and frank. Our guest from episode #311 was one of the participants in that discussion.
Transcript: A honeymoon in Paris or discord in South Caucasus? Russia's Reaction to French Weapon Deliveries!
Posted on Sunday, Mar 3, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Clip, Transcript | Series: BlogThe following is a transcript of a clip from episode 311 , where we address the blooming romance (at least as it appears externally) between the Armenia and France, NATO and the collective West.
Arthur Khachikyan - Russian-Armenian Experts Dialog | Exit from CSTO? | Armenian-Azerbaijani Negotiations | Edmon Marukyan Resigns | Ep 312 - Mar 3, 2024 [EP312]
Posted on Sunday, Mar 3, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, NATO, Genocide, Iran, Israel | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Remembering Sumgait Pogroms
- Russian-Armenian Experts Dialog
- Exit from CSTO?
- Armenian-Azerbaijani Negotiations
- Edmon Marukyan Resigns
Episode 312 | Recorded: Mar 3, 2024
Arthur Khachikyan - Russian-Armenian Experts Dialog | Exit from CSTO? | Armenian-Azerbaijani Negotiations | Edmon Marukyan Resigns | Ep 312 - Mar 3, 2024 [EP312]
Posted on Sunday, Mar 3, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Artsakh, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, NATO, Genocide, Iran, IsraelGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Remembering Sumgait Pogroms
- Russian-Armenian Experts Dialog
- Exit from CSTO?
- Armenian-Azerbaijani Negotiations
- Edmon Marukyan Resigns
Episode 312 | Recorded: Mar 3, 2024
Are the US CIA and UK MI6 helping overseeing the creation of the new Armenian External Intelligence Service?
Posted on Wednesday, Feb 28, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Politics, Clip | Series: BlogIn episode 310 , we talked about the potential that the US CIA and the UK MI6 are overseeing the creation of Armenia’s new intelligence service.
Sergei Melkonian - French Connection | Russian-Armenian Experts Dialog | Negotiations & Risk of War | Ep 311 - Feb 25, 2024 [EP311]
Posted on Tuesday, Feb 27, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Artsakh, Armenian Genocide, Iran, Turkey, Ukraine, Georgia, NATO, Middle East, Economy, Genocide, Geopolitics, Israel, Syria, India | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- French Connection
- Russian-Armenian Dialog
- Negotiations and Risk of War
Episode 311 | Recorded: February 27, 2024
Sergei Melkonian - French Connection | Russian-Armenian Experts Dialog | Negotiations & Risk of War | Ep 311 - Feb 25, 2024 [EP311]
Posted on Tuesday, Feb 27, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Artsakh, Armenian Genocide, Iran, Turkey, Ukraine, Georgia, NATO, Middle East, Economy, Genocide, Geopolitics, Israel, Syria, IndiaGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- French Connection
- Russian-Armenian Dialog
- Negotiations and Risk of War
Episode 311 | Recorded: February 27, 2024
Benyamin Poghosyan - Armenia Security in Danger | Munich Security Conference | Relations with Regional Allies | Ep 310 - Feb 18, 2024 [EP310]
Posted on Sunday, Feb 18, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, NATO, Turkey, Ukraine, Geopolitics, China, Economy, European Union, Middle East, India | Series: wir
Groong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Armeniaâs Security in Danger
- Munich Security Conference
- Relations with Regional Allies
Episode 310 | Recorded: February 18, 2024
Benyamin Poghosyan - Armenia Security in Danger | Munich Security Conference | Relations with Regional Allies | Ep 310 - Feb 18, 2024 [EP310]
Posted on Sunday, Feb 18, 2024 | Category: Armenia, Artsakh, Politics, Nagorno Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran, NATO, Turkey, Ukraine, Geopolitics, China, Economy, European Union, Middle East, IndiaGroong Links:
Guest:
Topics:
- Armeniaâs Security in Danger
- Munich Security Conference
- Relations with Regional Allies
Episode 310 | Recorded: February 18, 2024