https://podcasts.groong.org/tags/armenian-pows/Recent content in Armenian POWs on Groong PodcastHugoen-usTue, 12 May 2026 02:33:02 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/538-hrair-balian-anatomy-of-peacemaking-nagorno-karabakh-missed-opportunities-iran-war-tripp-zangezur-corridor-artsakh-negotiations-armenia-elections-osce-odihr/Sun, 03 May 2026 14:30:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/538-hrair-balian-anatomy-of-peacemaking-nagorno-karabakh-missed-opportunities-iran-war-tripp-zangezur-corridor-artsakh-negotiations-armenia-elections-osce-odihr/<h1 id="summary">Summary</h1> Hrair Balian joins us to discuss his book Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno Karabakh Conflict &amp; Missed Opportunities, the failure of diplomacy around Artsakh, and what Armenia should learn from the long collapse of the peace process. The conversation also looks at the Iran war, US and Israeli goals in the region, the TRIPP/Zangezur Corridor and its security impact on Armenia, and the role of outside powers in shaping outcomes in the South Caucasus. The episode closes with a discussion of Armenia’s June parliamentary elections, opposition repression, election monitoring, and whether international observers will judge the vote by facts on the ground or political convenience. <h2 id="main-topics-addressed">Main Topics Addressed</h2> <ul> <li>US-Iran relations and failed diplomacy</li> <li>Israeli and US interests in the Iran war</li> <li>Prospects for a negotiated end to the current conflict</li> <li>TRIPP, also known as the Zangezur Corridor</li> <li>Armenia’s sovereignty and security risks</li> <li>Iran’s red lines in the South Caucasus</li> <li>Hrair Balian’s book on Karabakh negotiations</li> <li>Missed opportunities in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process</li> <li>Secret or unreleased negotiation documents</li> <li>Russia, the West, and the South Caucasus after 2014</li> <li>Pashinyan’s shift on Artsakh</li> <li>The future of Artsakh and the right of return</li> <li>Armenia’s June parliamentary elections</li> <li>OSCE/ODIHR election monitoring and political bias concerns</li> </ul> <h2 id="key-questions-discussed">Key Questions Discussed</h2> <ul> <li>Did modern US-Iran tensions begin in 1979, 1953, or earlier?</li> <li>Was there ever a serious diplomatic effort between the US and Iran?</li> <li>Do US and Israeli interests align in the war on Iran?</li> <li>What is the end goal of the US-Israeli war on Iran?</li> <li>Is a negotiated solution still possible?</li> <li>Does TRIPP provide any security guarantee for Armenia?</li> <li>Can a future Armenian government renegotiate TRIPP with stronger safeguards?</li> <li>How does TRIPP relate to the November 2020 ceasefire statement and Russia’s assigned role?</li> <li>What lessons should Armenia draw from regional war and failed diplomacy?</li> <li>Why have parts of the Karabakh negotiation record remained secret?</li> <li>What were the main reasons the Nagorno-Karabakh peace talks failed?</li> <li>After 2014 or 2018, did the US prioritize conflict resolution or pressure on Russia?</li> <li>Was Armenia’s post-2018 course toward the West a sound strategy or a dangerous misread?</li> <li>Was the loss of Artsakh unavoidable?</li> <li>What should be made of the 2019 proposal to Armenia?</li> <li>Why did Pashinyan’s position on Artsakh shift so sharply after 2021?</li> <li>Is the Artsakh chapter closed, and what would it mean if it is not?</li> <li>Can Armenia’s June elections be judged free and fair under current conditions?</li> <li>Will international monitors assess the election based on facts or politics?</li> <li>How should Armenia’s opposition work with election monitoring organizations?</li> </ul> <h2 id="referenced-articles--sources">Referenced Articles &amp; Sources</h2> <ul> <li> <p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Peacemaking-Nagorno-Karabakh-Opportunities-Rethinking/dp/3032124891">(Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict &amp; Missed Opportunities (Rethinking Peace and Conflict Studies)</a></p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/538-hrair-balian-anatomy-of-peacemaking-nagorno-karabakh-missed-opportunities-iran-war-tripp-zangezur-corridor-artsakh-negotiations-armenia-elections-osce-odihr/Sun, 03 May 2026 14:30:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/538-hrair-balian-anatomy-of-peacemaking-nagorno-karabakh-missed-opportunities-iran-war-tripp-zangezur-corridor-artsakh-negotiations-armenia-elections-osce-odihr/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Hrair Balian joins us to discuss his book Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno Karabakh Conflict &amp; Missed Opportunities, the failure of diplomacy around Artsakh, and what Armenia should learn from the long collapse of the peace process. The conversation also looks at the Iran war, US and Israeli goals in the region, the TRIPP/Zangezur Corridor and its security impact on Armenia, and the role of outside powers in shaping outcomes in the South Caucasus. The episode closes with a discussion of Armenia’s June parliamentary elections, opposition repression, election monitoring, and whether international observers will judge the vote by facts on the ground or political convenience.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/20260503-transcript-538-hrair-balian-anatomy-of-peacemaking-nagorno-karabakh-missed-opportunities-iran-war-tripp-zangezur-corridor-artsakh-negotiations-armenia-elections-osce-odihr/Sun, 03 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/20260503-transcript-538-hrair-balian-anatomy-of-peacemaking-nagorno-karabakh-missed-opportunities-iran-war-tripp-zangezur-corridor-artsakh-negotiations-armenia-elections-osce-odihr/Hrair Balian joins us to discuss his book Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno Karabakh Conflict &amp; Missed Opportunities, the failure of diplomacy around Artsakh, and what Armenia should learn from the long collapse of the peace process. The conversation also looks at the Iran war, US and Israeli goals in the region, the TRIPP/Zangezur Corridor and its security impact on Armenia, and the role of outside powers in shaping outcomes in the South Caucasus. The episode closes with a discussion of Armenia’s June parliamentary elections, opposition repression, election monitoring, and whether international observers will judge the vote by facts on the ground or political convenience. <div class="row mt-4 mb-3"> <div class="col"> <p> <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/538/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Watch video with chapters </a> </p>https://podcasts.groong.org/537-arega-hovsepyan-strong-armenia-artsakh-right-of-return-arrests-opposition-elections-tripp-zangezur-corridor/Thu, 30 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/537-arega-hovsepyan-strong-armenia-artsakh-right-of-return-arrests-opposition-elections-tripp-zangezur-corridor/<h1 id="summary">Summary</h1> In this Conversations on Groong episode, we speak with Arega Hovsepyan of the Strong Armenia party about Armenia’s upcoming June 2026 parliamentary elections and the broader political climate. The discussion focuses on recent arrests targeting opposition figures, the situation of displaced Artsakh Armenians, competing narratives around “peace” with Azerbaijan, and the implications of the TRIPP or Zangezur Corridor project. We also examine opposition unity, polling trends, and legal questions surrounding Strong Armenia’s political strategy. <hr> <h2 id="main-topics-addressed">Main Topics Addressed</h2> <ul> <li>Strong Armenia’s role in the 2026 elections</li> <li>Arrests and legal pressure on opposition figures</li> <li>Conditions and rights of displaced Artsakh Armenians</li> <li>Voting rights and documentation issues for Artsakhtsis</li> <li>Destruction of Armenian cultural heritage in Artsakh</li> <li>Strong Armenia’s position on Artsakh and right of return</li> <li>Prisoners and hostages held in Baku</li> <li>TRIPP / Zangezur Corridor and sovereignty concerns</li> <li>Security guarantees and regional connectivity</li> <li>Impact of Iran conflict on regional projects</li> <li>Polling trends and opposition electoral prospects</li> <li>Coalition-building and opposition unity</li> <li>Legal challenges around Samvel Karapetyan’s candidacy</li> </ul> <hr> <h2 id="key-questions-discussed">Key Questions Discussed</h2> <ul> <li>Who is Arega Hovsepyan and what shaped her political path?</li> <li>What is the current status of arrests targeting Strong Armenia members?</li> <li>How credible are the allegations of electoral bribery?</li> <li>Could Strong Armenia face restrictions or bans ahead of elections?</li> <li>What are the living conditions of Artsakh Armenians in Armenia today?</li> <li>How many displaced Artsakhtsis can vote and are they engaged?</li> <li>What is Strong Armenia’s plan for the right of return to Artsakh?</li> <li>How can Armenian prisoners be brought back from Baku?</li> <li>Has Armenia actually achieved peace with Azerbaijan?</li> <li>What risks exist if political power shifts in Armenia?</li> <li>Can TRIPP be reshaped into a mutually beneficial project?</li> <li>What security guarantees would make regional corridors acceptable?</li> <li>How do regional dynamics, including Iran, affect these plans?</li> <li>What do current polls suggest about Strong Armenia’s chances?</li> <li>Will opposition forces unite to form a coalition government?</li> <li>How can Samvel Karapetyan legally become prime minister?</li> </ul> <hr> <h2 id="referenced-articles--sources">Referenced Articles &amp; Sources</h2> <ul> <li><a href="https://armenpress.am/en/article/1248584">Senior Strong Armenia party member arrested, authorities confirm</a></li> <li><a href="https://armenpress.am/en/video/1248618">Four arrested in alleged vote-buying case involving Strong Armenia party supporter</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.azatutyun.am/a/33743681.html">Another Karapetian Ally Arrested</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.azatutyun.am/a/33743620.html">Azerbaijan Defends Destruction Of Karabakh Armenian Churches</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.rferl.org/a/cathedral-church-demolished-nagorno-karabakh-azerbaijan-armenia-conflict/33743489.html">Photo Exclusive: Cathedral, Church Demolished In Nagorno-Karabakh</a></li> </ul> <h1 id="wrap-up">Wrap-up</h1> <h3 id="links-and-resources"><strong>Links and Resources</strong></h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.patreon.com/groong">Patreon - Support Groong</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.buymeacoffee.com/groong">Buy Me a Coffee - Support Groong</a></li> </ul> <p>That&rsquo;s our <a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/">show</a>, we hope you found it helpful. We invite your feedback and your suggestions, you can <a href="https://linktr.ee/groong">find us</a> on most social media and podcast platforms.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/537-arega-hovsepyan-strong-armenia-artsakh-right-of-return-arrests-opposition-elections-tripp-zangezur-corridor/Thu, 30 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/537-arega-hovsepyan-strong-armenia-artsakh-right-of-return-arrests-opposition-elections-tripp-zangezur-corridor/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>In this Conversations on Groong episode, we speak with Arega Hovsepyan of the Strong Armenia party about Armenia’s upcoming June 2026 parliamentary elections and the broader political climate. The discussion focuses on recent arrests targeting opposition figures, the situation of displaced Artsakh Armenians, competing narratives around “peace” with Azerbaijan, and the implications of the TRIPP or Zangezur Corridor project. We also examine opposition unity, polling trends, and legal questions surrounding Strong Armenia’s political strategy.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/20260430-transcript-537-arega-hovsepyan-strong-armenia-artsakh-right-of-return-arrests-opposition-elections-tripp-zangezur-corridor/Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/20260430-transcript-537-arega-hovsepyan-strong-armenia-artsakh-right-of-return-arrests-opposition-elections-tripp-zangezur-corridor/In this Conversations on Groong episode, we speak with Arega Hovsepyan of the Strong Armenia party about Armenia’s upcoming June 2026 parliamentary elections and the broader political climate. The discussion focuses on recent arrests targeting opposition figures, the situation of displaced Artsakh Armenians, competing narratives around “peace” with Azerbaijan, and the implications of the TRIPP or Zangezur Corridor project. We also examine opposition unity, polling trends, and legal questions surrounding Strong Armenia’s political strategy. <div class="row mt-4 mb-3"> <div class="col"> <p> <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/537/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Watch video with chapters </a> </p>https://podcasts.groong.org/529-pietro-shakarian-iran-war-trump-armenia-russia-relations-parliamentary-election-2026/Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/529-pietro-shakarian-iran-war-trump-armenia-russia-relations-parliamentary-election-2026/<h1 id="summary">Summary</h1> <p>Dr. Pietro Shakarian joined us to discuss the state of the U.S.-Israel war on Iran, the shrinking chances for a diplomatic off-ramp, and how the conflict is shifting wider Eurasian politics. The conversation then turned to Armenia, including the likely freezing of TRIPP amid the Iran war, Pashinyan’s contentious visit to Moscow, and the deeper low point in Armenia-Russia relations. The final section focused on Armenia’s June parliamentary elections, public sentiment toward Pashinyan, fears over election integrity, and the evolving opposition landscape.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/529-pietro-shakarian-iran-war-trump-armenia-russia-relations-parliamentary-election-2026/Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/529-pietro-shakarian-iran-war-trump-armenia-russia-relations-parliamentary-election-2026/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Dr. Pietro Shakarian joined us to discuss the state of the U.S.-Israel war on Iran, the shrinking chances for a diplomatic off-ramp, and how the conflict is shifting wider Eurasian politics. The conversation then turned to Armenia, including the likely freezing of TRIPP amid the Iran war, Pashinyan’s contentious visit to Moscow, and the deeper low point in Armenia-Russia relations. The final section focused on Armenia’s June parliamentary elections, public sentiment toward Pashinyan, fears over election integrity, and the evolving opposition landscape.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/20260404-transcript-529-pietro-shakarian-iran-war-trump-armenia-russia-relations-parliamentary-election-2026/Sat, 04 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/20260404-transcript-529-pietro-shakarian-iran-war-trump-armenia-russia-relations-parliamentary-election-2026/<p>Dr. Pietro Shakarian joined us to discuss the state of the U.S.-Israel war on Iran, the shrinking chances for a diplomatic off-ramp, and how the conflict is shifting wider Eurasian politics. The conversation then turned to Armenia, including the likely freezing of TRIPP amid the Iran war, Pashinyan’s contentious visit to Moscow, and the deeper low point in Armenia-Russia relations. The final section focused on Armenia’s June parliamentary elections, public sentiment toward Pashinyan, fears over election integrity, and the evolving opposition landscape.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/510-arthur-khachatryan-no-peace-davos-jd-vance-armenia-ethnic-cleansing-artsakh/Wed, 28 Jan 2026 02:30:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/510-arthur-khachatryan-no-peace-davos-jd-vance-armenia-ethnic-cleansing-artsakh/<h3></h3> <h1 id="summary">Summary</h1> <p>At Davos, Mark Carney’s blunt comment that the “rules-based international order” is a myth set the tone for a wider discussion about how small states survive in a system where rules get enforced selectively. From there, our discussion with <strong>MP Arthur Khachatryan</strong> moved to Washington’s announced visit to Armenia and Azerbaijan by VP JD Vance and the TRIPP framing, including what it signals for Armenia’s strategic direction, and how Iran and Russia may react. In further topics, we focused on Armenia’s Church-state crisis (including the bishops’ assembly moving to Austria and the Talin liturgy incident), the last known Armenians leaving Artsakh, and the emergence of a new opposition force tied to the Mer Dzevov movement ahead of the June elections.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/510-arthur-khachatryan-no-peace-davos-jd-vance-armenia-ethnic-cleansing-artsakh/Wed, 28 Jan 2026 02:30:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/510-arthur-khachatryan-no-peace-davos-jd-vance-armenia-ethnic-cleansing-artsakh/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Memorial Day vs. Army Day. JD Vance to Armenia and Azerbaijan. Armenian Church Developments. Strong Armenia - New Political Party.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/510/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/506-pietro-shakarian-iranian-protests-alliance-with-russia-usa-armenia-tripp-azerbaijan-israel-alliance/Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/506-pietro-shakarian-iranian-protests-alliance-with-russia-usa-armenia-tripp-azerbaijan-israel-alliance/<h1 id="summary">Summary</h1> <p>In this Conversations on Groong episode, historian Dr. Pietro Shakarian joins us to look at the riot-level unrest in Iran, Trump’s threats and pressure tactics, and what this could mean for Russia–Iran coordination, Armenia’s security environment, and corridor politics in the South Caucasus, including TRIPP. They also discuss Vladimir Solovyov’s recent comments on Armenia and post-Soviet Eurasia, then close with the release of four Armenian hostages from Azerbaijani captivity and what it may signal.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/506-pietro-shakarian-iranian-protests-alliance-with-russia-usa-armenia-tripp-azerbaijan-israel-alliance/Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/506-pietro-shakarian-iranian-protests-alliance-with-russia-usa-armenia-tripp-azerbaijan-israel-alliance/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>In this Conversations on Groong episode, historian Dr. Pietro Shakarian joins us to look at the riot-level unrest in Iran, Trump’s threats and pressure tactics, and what this could mean for Russia–Iran coordination, Armenia’s security environment, and corridor politics in the South Caucasus, including TRIPP. They also discuss Vladimir Solovyov’s recent comments on Armenia and post-Soviet Eurasia, then close with the release of four Armenian hostages from Azerbaijani captivity and what it may signal.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/473-armen-ashotyan-pashinyan-vote-of-no-confidence-armenian-opposition-strategies/Fri, 19 Sep 2025 00:29:42 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/473-armen-ashotyan-pashinyan-vote-of-no-confidence-armenian-opposition-strategies/<h1 id="summary">Summary</h1> <p><strong>Armen Ashotyan</strong>, vice president of the Republican Party of Armenia, explains the opposition’s plan for a no-confidence path against Pashinyan, how impeachment procedure pairs with street mobilization, and why opposition unity matters ahead of 2026. We also unpack TRIPP, the announced U.S. funding, and the gap between “up to 99 years” language heard in Washington and what appears in the MoUs published by Yerevan. Ashotyan rejects the “Pashinyan or war” binary and says real peace requires security first.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/473-armen-ashotyan-pashinyan-vote-of-no-confidence-armenian-opposition-strategies/Fri, 19 Sep 2025 00:29:42 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/473-armen-ashotyan-pashinyan-vote-of-no-confidence-armenian-opposition-strategies/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Armen Ashotyan, vice president of the Republican Party of Armenia, explains the opposition’s plan for a no-confidence path against Pashinyan, how impeachment procedure pairs with street mobilization, and why opposition unity matters ahead of 2026. We also unpack TRIPP, the announced U.S. funding, and the gap between “up to 99 years” language heard in Washington and what appears in the MoUs published by Yerevan. Ashotyan rejects the “Pashinyan or war” binary and says real peace requires security first.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/471-hrant-mikaelian-war-on-iran-russia-on-tripp-mpg-poll-in-armenia-economy-in-2025/Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/471-hrant-mikaelian-war-on-iran-russia-on-tripp-mpg-poll-in-armenia-economy-in-2025/<h1 id="summary">Summary</h1> <p>This week’s Week in Review with Hrant Mikaelian covers mounting tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and the risk of renewed war, Russia’s muted stance on the TRIPP corridor despite U.S. and Turkish advances, fresh data from the MPG poll on Armenia’s politics and society, and the state of Armenia’s economy at mid-2025, with particular focus on re-exports, debt, and government underperformance.</p> <h1 id="main-topics-addressed">Main Topics Addressed</h1> <ul> <li><strong>War in Iran</strong>: The E3 snapback sanctions, Iran’s possible NPT withdrawal, and risks of a U.S.-Israeli escalation.</li> <li><strong>TRIPP Corridor</strong>: U.S. and Israeli leverage, Paul Goble’s views, Russia’s puzzling response, Iran’s split stance.</li> <li><strong>MPG Poll Findings</strong>: <ul> <li>Attitudes toward the Aug 8 White House TRIPP agreement.</li> <li>Views on opening a road through Syunik.</li> <li>Whether Washington agreements will bring peace.</li> <li>Constitutional change as a precondition from Azerbaijan.</li> <li>Political prisoners, including Samvel Karapetyan and Bagrat Srbazan.</li> <li>Party standings if elections were held today.</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Armenian Economy H1/2025</strong>: Decline in re-exports, slowdown in industry, underperformance of key ministries, rising debt, and growth trends in construction and agriculture.</li> </ul> <h1 id="key-questions-discussed">Key Questions Discussed</h1> <ul> <li>Is the West pushing Iran into a corner, and could this lead to renewed war?</li> <li>Could TRIPP serve as a launchpad for U.S. and Israeli operations against Iran?</li> <li>Why is Russia muted while Paul Goble and U.S. analysts are exuberant?</li> <li>What do the MPG poll results reveal about Armenian public opinion on TRIPP, peace prospects, constitutional change, and political prisoners?</li> <li>Does Samvel Karapetyan’s rise in polling numbers suggest a viable opposition force in 2026?</li> <li>How sustainable is Armenia’s economy given re-export decline, underperforming ministries, and rising debt?</li> </ul> <h1 id="referenced-articles--sources">Referenced Articles &amp; Sources</h1> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/29/russia-china-slam-european-nations-over-iran-snapback-sanctions-move">Al Jazeera – Russia, China slam European nations over Iran snapback sanctions move</a></li> <li><a href="https://en.mehrnews.com/news/236175/Iran-parl-could-discuss-emergency-plan-to-exit-NPT-Sun-MP">Mehr News – Iran parliament may discuss exit from NPT</a></li> <li><a href="https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/08/11/israel-iran-war-trump-nuclear-august-december/">Foreign Policy – Israel-Iran war could come before December</a></li> <li><a href="https://reliefweb.int/report/armenia/how-goble-plan-was-born-and-how-it-remains-political-factor">ReliefWeb – How the Goble Plan was born</a></li> <li><a href="https://ria.ru/20250906/overchuk-2040140270.html">RIA – Overchuk on TRIPP</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us-secures-strategic-transit-corridor-armenia-azerbaijan-peace-deal-2025-08-07/">Reuters – U.S. secures strategic transit corridor Armenia-Azerbaijan</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.luys.am/img/artpic/small/272ea2668ff86421398504-2025-%D5%AB%D4%B2%D5%B5%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%BB%D5%A5%D5%AB1-%D5%AB%D5%B6%D5%AF%D5%AB%D5%BD%D5%A1%D5%B4%D5%B5%D5%A1%D5%AF%D5%AB%D5%AF%D5%A1%D5%BF%D5%A1%D6%80%D5%B8%D5%B2%D5%A1%D5%AF%D5%A1%D5%B6-2025.pdf">Luys Foundation – H1/2025 Armenian Economy report</a></li> <li><a href="https://168.am/2025/08/25/2266794.html">168.am – Digest of Luys report</a></li> <li><a href="https://caucasuswatch.de/en/news/armenias-mixed-economy-growth-in-services-offsets-trade-and-industry-decline.html">Caucasus Watch – Armenia’s mixed economy</a></li> </ul> <h1 id="thoughts-from-the-participants">Thoughts from the Participants</h1> <ul> <li><strong>Hrant Mikaelian</strong>: On Netanyahu’s recognition of the Armenian Genocide and the controversial renovations at Tsitsernakaberd.</li> <li><strong>Asbed</strong>: Questioned why Pashinyan refused to request the return of POWs or territory during the August 8 White House meeting.</li> <li><strong>Hovik</strong>: No additional statement this week.</li> </ul> <h1 id="mpg-poll">MPG Poll</h1> <hr> <h2 id="slide-2-methodology">Slide 2: Methodology</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Research method</strong>: Telephone surveys</li> <li><strong>Sample Size</strong>: 1101</li> <li><strong>Error Margin</strong>: ±3%</li> <li><strong>Implementation period</strong>: August 25, 2025 - August 30, 2025</li> <li><strong>Research location</strong>: Republic of Armenia</li> </ul> <p><p class="md__image"> <img src="https://podcasts.groong.org/img/episode/471/slides/MPG-slide-02.webp" alt="Slide 2" title="Slide 2" class="img-fluid" /> </p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/471-hrant-mikaelian-war-on-iran-russia-on-tripp-mpg-poll-in-armenia-economy-in-2025/Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/471-hrant-mikaelian-war-on-iran-russia-on-tripp-mpg-poll-in-armenia-economy-in-2025/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>This week’s Week in Review with Hrant Mikaelian covers mounting tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and the risk of renewed war, Russia’s muted stance on the TRIPP corridor despite U.S. and Turkish advances, fresh data from the MPG poll on Armenia’s politics and society, and the state of Armenia’s economy at mid-2025, with particular focus on re-exports, debt, and government underperformance.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/471/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/470-lenna-hovanessian-august8-white-house-artsakh-anca-cuellar-genocide-diaspora-lobbying/Sun, 07 Sep 2025 18:30:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/470-lenna-hovanessian-august8-white-house-artsakh-anca-cuellar-genocide-diaspora-lobbying/<p>In this Conversations on Groong episode, we speak with Lenna Hovanessian, board member of the ANC-Western Region, about the aftermath of the August 8 White House meeting between Pashinyan, Aliyev, and Trump. We discuss the omissions in the agreements, including the rights of Artsakh Armenians, the release of hostages, and protection of cultural heritage. The conversation also covers the Section 907 waiver, dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group, strained diaspora–Armenia relations, Pashinyan’s stance on Genocide recognition, Azerbaijan’s lobbying efforts, and the Cuellar bribery case, where ANCA has asked that Armenian Americans be designated as victims.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/470-lenna-hovanessian-august8-white-house-artsakh-anca-cuellar-genocide-diaspora-lobbying/Sun, 07 Sep 2025 18:30:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/470-lenna-hovanessian-august8-white-house-artsakh-anca-cuellar-genocide-diaspora-lobbying/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>In this Conversations on Groong episode, we speak with Lenna Hovanessian, board member of the ANC-Western Region, about the aftermath of the August 8 White House meeting between Pashinyan, Aliyev, and Trump. We discuss the omissions in the agreements, including the rights of Artsakh Armenians, the release of hostages, and protection of cultural heritage. The conversation also covers the Section 907 waiver, dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group, strained diaspora–Armenia relations, Pashinyan’s stance on Genocide recognition, Azerbaijan’s lobbying efforts, and the Cuellar bribery case, where ANCA has asked that Armenian Americans be designated as victims.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/465-armen-ashotyan-political-prisoner-epp-diaspora-armenian-church-capitulation-artsakh/Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:29:42 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/465-armen-ashotyan-political-prisoner-epp-diaspora-armenian-church-capitulation-artsakh/<p>In this episode of <em>Conversations on Groong</em>, we speak with <strong>Armen Ashotyan</strong>, vice president of the Republican Party of Armenia, in his first English-language interview since being released from house arrest. Ashotyan reflects on his 25 months of detention as Armenia’s most prominent political prisoner, the broader pattern of repression under Pashinyan, the muted response of Western diplomats, the fragmented stance of the diaspora, and the ongoing erosion of Armenian statehood through the so-called “peace” process with Azerbaijan.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/465-armen-ashotyan-political-prisoner-epp-diaspora-armenian-church-capitulation-artsakh/Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:29:42 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/465-armen-ashotyan-political-prisoner-epp-diaspora-armenian-church-capitulation-artsakh/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Armen Ashotyan, vice president of the Republican Party of Armenia, in his first English-language interview since being released from house arrest. Ashotyan reflects on his 25 months of detention as Armenia’s most prominent political prisoner, the broader pattern of repression under Pashinyan, the muted response of Western diplomats, the fragmented stance of the diaspora, and the ongoing erosion of Armenian statehood through the so-called “peace” process with Azerbaijan.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/464-tevan-poghosyan-armenia-state-sovereignty-tripp-trump-corridor-azerbaijan-turkey-russia-iran-pezeshkian-overchuk-yerevan/Tue, 26 Aug 2025 02:15:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/464-tevan-poghosyan-armenia-state-sovereignty-tripp-trump-corridor-azerbaijan-turkey-russia-iran-pezeshkian-overchuk-yerevan/<p>This Week in Review features Tevan Poghosyan, who joins us to discuss the 35th anniversary of Armenia’s Declaration of State Sovereignty, the secrecy and dangers surrounding the Washington-brokered TRIPP (Trump Route) agreements, Iran’s mixed response to the corridor following President Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to Yerevan, and Russia’s quiet but firm reminders of its enduring leverage in Armenia. We also touch on the Gaza genocide, the importance of unity for Armenians, and developments in Armenian politics including Narek Karapetyan’s videos, Jirayr Libaridian’s analysis, Russia’s response to pro-Azeri voices, Pashinyan’s defense budget stance, and more in the Kitchen Sink.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/464-tevan-poghosyan-armenia-state-sovereignty-tripp-trump-corridor-azerbaijan-turkey-russia-iran-pezeshkian-overchuk-yerevan/Tue, 26 Aug 2025 02:15:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/464-tevan-poghosyan-armenia-state-sovereignty-tripp-trump-corridor-azerbaijan-turkey-russia-iran-pezeshkian-overchuk-yerevan/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>This Week in Review features Tevan Poghosyan, who joins us to discuss the 35th anniversary of Armenia’s Declaration of State Sovereignty, the secrecy and dangers surrounding the Washington-brokered TRIPP (Trump Route) agreements, Iran’s mixed response to the corridor following President Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to Yerevan, and Russia’s quiet but firm reminders of its enduring leverage in Armenia. We also touch on the Gaza genocide, the importance of unity for Armenians, and developments in Armenian politics including Narek Karapetyan’s videos, Jirayr Libaridian’s analysis, Russia’s response to pro-Azeri voices, Pashinyan’s defense budget stance, and more in the Kitchen Sink.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/421-hrant-mikaelian-armenian-news-artsakh-abkhazia-elections-armenian-pows-yerevan-protests-azerbaijan-armenia-azerbaijan-relations-stalled-peace-talks-opposition-infighting-badra-gunba-adgur-ardzinba-baku-trials/Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/421-hrant-mikaelian-armenian-news-artsakh-abkhazia-elections-armenian-pows-yerevan-protests-azerbaijan-armenia-azerbaijan-relations-stalled-peace-talks-opposition-infighting-badra-gunba-adgur-ardzinba-baku-trials/<p>In this episode, we discuss the latest developments in Abkhazia’s presidential elections, the ongoing plight of Armenian hostages in Baku, and the protests in Yerevan calling for stronger government action. We also cover the stalled Armenia-Azerbaijan negotiations and deepening divisions within Armenia’s opposition.</p> <hr> <h2 id="topics-covered">Topics Covered</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Abkhaz Elections &amp; Regional Implications</strong> – The impact of mass protests, Badra Gunba’s victory, and its geopolitical consequences.</li> <li><strong>Armenian Hostages in Baku</strong> – Reports of torture, Ruben Vardanyan’s hunger strike, and shifting Armenian government rhetoric.</li> <li><strong>Protests in Yerevan Over POWs</strong> – Civil society-led demonstrations demanding stronger action and international intervention.</li> <li><strong>Azerbaijan Rejects Armenia’s Proposals</strong> – The stalled peace negotiations and whether Ukraine-Russia diplomacy plays a role.</li> <li><strong>Opposition Infighting</strong> – Escalating tensions among Armenian opposition factions following Robert Kocharyan’s latest remarks.</li> </ul> <hr> <h2 id="key-questions-discussed">Key Questions Discussed</h2> <ol> <li>What were the key issues at stake in the Abkhaz elections, and what do the results mean for Russia’s influence?</li> <li>How significant are the protests in Yerevan? Do they reflect a shift in public sentiment or political calculations?</li> <li>Why is the Armenian government changing its approach on Armenian hostages in Azerbaijan?</li> <li>What is the right strategy for securing the release of Armenian POWs?</li> <li>Why did Azerbaijan reject Armenia’s latest railway corridor proposal? Is the broader geopolitical context playing a role?</li> <li>What is fueling the growing divisions in the Armenian opposition, and what does it mean for 2026 elections?</li> </ol> <hr> <h2 id="links-referenced-during-the-show">Links Referenced During The Show</h2> <h3 id="abkhaz-elections">Abkhaz Elections</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.voanews.com/a/abkhazia-s-acting-leader-wins-presidential-election-state-media-say/7994512.html">VOA: Abkhazia’s Acting Leader Wins Presidential Election</a></li> </ul> <h3 id="armenian-hostages--yerevan-protests">Armenian Hostages &amp; Yerevan Protests</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://jam-news.net/freedom-for-ruben-vardanyan-and-others-protests-in-armenia/">Jam News: Protests in Armenia for Ruben Vardanyan and POWs</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.panorama.am/en/news/2025/02/28/International-community-call/3120130">Panorama: International Call for Medical Examination of Armenian Hostages</a></li> <li><a href="https://arka.am/en/news/politics/mfa-azerbaijan-uses-staged-trial-of-armenians-as-instrument-of-political-pressure-on-armenia/">ARKA: Armenian MFA Condemns Azerbaijani Trials as Political Pressure</a></li> <li><a href="https://asbarez.com/reports-of-beatings-failing-health-prompt-appeal-for-intervention-in-ruben-vardanyans-case/">Asbarez: Beatings and Failing Health in Baku’s Prisons</a></li> </ul> <h3 id="azerbaijan-rejects-armenias-proposal">Azerbaijan Rejects Armenia’s Proposal</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://armenpress.am/en/article/1210864">Armenpress: Azerbaijan Rejects Railway Proposal</a></li> <li><a href="https://jam-news.net/nikol-pashinyans-statements-on-arms-control-not-up-for-discussion-azerbaijani-experts-on-armenian-pms-remarks/">Jam News: Pashinyan’s Statements on Arms Control Rejected by Azerbaijan</a></li> <li><a href="https://168.am/2025/02/27/2174940.html">168.am: Analysis of Stalled Armenia-Azerbaijan Talks</a></li> </ul> <h3 id="opposition-infighting">Opposition Infighting</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/armen.ashotyan/posts/pfbid0Wu7o9W6f7utCKvK3DZb8Jak4bdumgKpkb4zSWSsqB8K1E8YJHM8gbBfbr8qyPHDl">Facebook: Armen Ashotyan on Opposition Divisions</a></li> <li><a href="https://youtu.be/NdOIQTMHh9g">YouTube: Kocharyan’s Press Conference on Opposition Unity</a></li> </ul> <h3 id="sumgait-pogroms-anniversary">Sumgait Pogroms Anniversary</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://arka.am/en/news/politics/on-sumgait-pogroms-anniversary-armenian-foreign-ministry-calls-for-overcoming-enmity-to-prevent-repe/">ARKA: Armenian MFA Statement on Sumgait &amp; Ethnic Cleansing</a></li> <li><a href="https://asbarez.com/yerevan-said-bakus-state-sponsored-pogroms-continued-to-2023/">Asbarez: State-Sponsored Violence from Sumgait to 2023</a></li> </ul> <h1 id="wrap-up">Wrap-up</h1> <p>That’s our <a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/">show</a>! We hope you found it useful. Please find us on <a href="https://linktr.ee/groong">Social Media</a> and follow us everywhere you get your Armenian news.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/421-hrant-mikaelian-armenian-news-artsakh-abkhazia-elections-armenian-pows-yerevan-protests-azerbaijan-armenia-azerbaijan-relations-stalled-peace-talks-opposition-infighting-badra-gunba-adgur-ardzinba-baku-trials/Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/421-hrant-mikaelian-armenian-news-artsakh-abkhazia-elections-armenian-pows-yerevan-protests-azerbaijan-armenia-azerbaijan-relations-stalled-peace-talks-opposition-infighting-badra-gunba-adgur-ardzinba-baku-trials/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>In this episode, we discuss the latest developments in Abkhazia’s presidential elections, the ongoing plight of Armenian hostages in Baku, and the protests in Yerevan calling for stronger government action. We also cover the stalled Armenia-Azerbaijan negotiations and deepening divisions within Armenia’s opposition.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/421/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/418-arthur-martirosyan-kocharyan-press-conf-ukraine-negotiations-riyadh-edgar-ghazaryan-bullied-yerevan-bus-fares/Tue, 25 Feb 2025 00:20:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/418-arthur-martirosyan-kocharyan-press-conf-ukraine-negotiations-riyadh-edgar-ghazaryan-bullied-yerevan-bus-fares/<h1 id="-armenian-news-network--groong">🇦🇲 Armenian News Network / Groong</h1> <h2 id="week-in-review--episode-418"><strong>Week in Review – Episode 418</strong></h2> <p>📅 <strong>Recorded:</strong> February 24, 2025<br> 🎙 <strong>Hosts:</strong> <a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/host/hovik">Hovik Manucharyan</a>, <a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/host/asbed">Asbed Bedrossian</a><br> 🎙 <strong>Guest:</strong> <a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/guest/amartirosyan">Arthur G. Martirosyan</a> (International Conflict Specialist, CM Partners)</p> <hr> <h2 id="-main-topics-addressed"><strong>📌 Main Topics Addressed</strong></h2> <ul> <li><strong>Ukraine Negotiations in Riyadh</strong> – The evolving geopolitical situation as Trump engages in direct negotiations with Russia while sidelining Ukraine and Europe.</li> <li><strong>Edgar Ghazaryan Harassed by the Government</strong> – The Armenian government escalates its crackdown on opposition voices with criminal charges against Ghazaryan, including travel restrictions and speech limitations.</li> <li><strong>Robert Kocharyan’s Press Conference</strong> – Key takeaways from the former Armenian president’s four-hour press conference, including his stance on Artsakh, negotiations with Azerbaijan, and Russia’s role.</li> <li><strong>Yerevan Bus Fare Controversy</strong> – Public outcry over radical increases in public transportation fares and how opposition figures are leveraging the discontent.</li> </ul> <hr> <h2 id="-key-questions-discussed"><strong>🔍 Key Questions Discussed</strong></h2> <h3 id="ukraine-negotiations-in-riyadh"><strong>Ukraine Negotiations in Riyadh</strong></h3> <ul> <li>What accounts for the dramatic change in Trump’s rhetoric towards Ukraine?</li> <li>What are Trump’s negotiating positions regarding Russia, Ukraine, and Europe?</li> <li>What are Russia’s red lines in the negotiation process?</li> <li>Why is the EU hesitant to push for peace?</li> <li>Can Turkey act as a security guarantor for Ukraine?</li> </ul> <h3 id="edgar-ghazaryans-case"><strong>Edgar Ghazaryan’s Case</strong></h3> <ul> <li>Why is the Armenian government cracking down on opposition speech now?</li> <li>What are the legal and political implications of restricting opposition voices?</li> </ul> <h3 id="robert-kocharyans-political-strategy"><strong>Robert Kocharyan’s Political Strategy</strong></h3> <ul> <li>Is Kocharyan signaling to Russia that he would reverse Armenia’s current negotiation strategy if he were to return to power?</li> <li>How does Kocharyan’s stance on the November 2020 agreement contrast with the current Armenian government’s position?</li> </ul> <h3 id="iran-russia-and-the"><strong>Iran, Russia, and the &ldquo;Zangezur Corridor&rdquo;</strong></h3> <ul> <li>What are the fundamental differences between Iran and Russia regarding the corridor?</li> <li>Could Kocharyan’s policies align Russia and Iran more closely on this issue?</li> </ul> <h3 id="yerevan-bus-fare-protests"><strong>Yerevan Bus Fare Protests</strong></h3> <ul> <li>Can the discontent over public transportation costs evolve into a larger anti-government movement?</li> <li>How is the opposition engaging with these protests?</li> </ul> <hr> <h2 id="-referenced-articles--sources"><strong>🔗 Referenced Articles &amp; Sources</strong></h2> <ul> <li><a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/414">Groong Podcast Episode 414</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2025/02/24/7499776/">Ukraine Negotiations Coverage – Pravda</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/turkey-open-act-security-guarantor-ukraine-peace-agreement">Middle East Eye on Turkey’s Role in Ukraine</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/23/israel-wont-allow-syria-military-forces-south-of-damascus-netanyahu">Al Jazeera on Israel’s Position in Syria</a></li> <li><a href="https://panarmenian.net/eng/news/319660">Armenian Government’s Case Against Ghazaryan</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.arlis.am/documentview.aspx?docid=153080">Armenian Legislation Reference (Article 490)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.azatutyun.am/a/33290645.html">Kocharyan’s Press Conference Highlights</a></li> <li><a href="https://168.am/2025/02/17/2169322.html">Zangezur Corridor Debate – 168.am</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.azatutyun.am/a/33317884.html">Yerevan Bus Fare Protests – Azatutyun</a></li> </ul> <hr> <p>📢 <strong>Listen to the full episode:</strong> <a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/418">https://podcasts.groong.org/418</a></p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/418-arthur-martirosyan-kocharyan-press-conf-ukraine-negotiations-riyadh-edgar-ghazaryan-bullied-yerevan-bus-fares/Tue, 25 Feb 2025 00:20:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/418-arthur-martirosyan-kocharyan-press-conf-ukraine-negotiations-riyadh-edgar-ghazaryan-bullied-yerevan-bus-fares/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Ukraine Negotiations in Riyadh. Edgar Ghazayan Bullied by the Government. Robert Kocharyan Press Conference. Yerevan Bus Fares.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/418/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/387-arthur-martirosyan-armenia-firings-by-text-scandalous-pashinyan-interview-escalattion-in-ukraine/Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:20:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/387-arthur-martirosyan-armenia-firings-by-text-scandalous-pashinyan-interview-escalattion-in-ukraine/<p>November 25 is <a href="https://www.panorama.am/en/news/2024/11/25/Monte-Melkonian/3082418">Monte Melkonyan’s birthday</a>. An Armenian National Hero who embodied unwavering courage, intellect, and a selfless dedication to the liberation of Artsakh, inspiring generations with his vision of a free and secure homeland. Despite our dark days, his legacy inspires us, proving that heroes like Monte come from the strength of our people.</p> <h2 id="supreme-judicial-council-head-mps-resign-at-pashinyans-ask">Supreme Judicial Council Head, MPs resign at Pashinyan’s “Ask”</h2> <p>We all know about the spate of resignations of many of Pashinyan’s cabinet ministers, members of parliament and the head of the supreme judicial council. In fact, we covered it last week and frankly we weren’t planning to talk about it anymore.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/387-arthur-martirosyan-armenia-firings-by-text-scandalous-pashinyan-interview-escalattion-in-ukraine/Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:20:00 +0400https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/387-arthur-martirosyan-armenia-firings-by-text-scandalous-pashinyan-interview-escalattion-in-ukraine/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>November 25 is Monte Melkonyan’s birthday. An Armenian National Hero who embodied unwavering courage, intellect, and a selfless dedication to the liberation of Artsakh, inspiring generations with his vision of a free and secure homeland. Despite our dark days, his legacy inspires us, proving that heroes like Monte come from the strength of our people.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/387/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/247-alison-tahmizian-meuse-aknandakan-eye-for-an-eye-tegh-ardanish-flag-raising-berdzor-aghavno/Fri, 14 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/247-alison-tahmizian-meuse-aknandakan-eye-for-an-eye-tegh-ardanish-flag-raising-berdzor-aghavno/<h2 id="raising-flags-alison-on-recent-events-in-tegh-and-across-armenia">Raising Flags: Alison on Recent Events in Tegh and Across Armenia</h2> <h3 id="aghavno--berdzor">Aghavno / Berdzor</h3> <p>In August 2022, you were with a group of friends in Aghavno and called for followers to join you in an attempt to prevent the handover of Berdzor/Aghavno to Azerbaijan.</p> <p><strong>Questions:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Are these events, Berdzor, Aghavno, Jermuk, now Tegh, a consequence of policies of the Armenian government?</li> </ul> <h3 id="april-11-azeri-aggression-near-tegh">April 11 Azeri Aggression Near Tegh</h3> <p>The unprovoked Azeri shootings of April 11 killed 4 of our soldiers near Tegh village. A week ago <a href="https://podcasts.groong.org/245">we talked with Naira Melikyan</a>, mother of fallen soldier Hayk Melikyan, who tried to visit this region with other concerned parents and activists, and she was prevented by Armenian border guards, who claimed to be stopping her “for her own safety”.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/247-alison-tahmizian-meuse-aknandakan-eye-for-an-eye-tegh-ardanish-flag-raising-berdzor-aghavno/Fri, 14 Apr 2023 00:15:00 -0700https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/247-alison-tahmizian-meuse-aknandakan-eye-for-an-eye-tegh-ardanish-flag-raising-berdzor-aghavno/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Aghavno / Berdzor. April 11 Azeri Aggression Near Tegh. Raising Flags. Azeri Infiltrations into Armenia.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/247/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/135-mass-protests-growing-fm-mirzoyan-in-dc-normalization-round-3-ep-135-may-8-2022/Tue, 10 May 2022 14:48:45 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/135-mass-protests-growing-fm-mirzoyan-in-dc-normalization-round-3-ep-135-may-8-2022/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/135-mass-protests-growing-fm-mirzoyan-in-dc-normalization-round-3-ep-135-may-8-2022/Tue, 10 May 2022 14:48:45 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/135-mass-protests-growing-fm-mirzoyan-in-dc-normalization-round-3-ep-135-may-8-2022/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Mass Protests Growing in Yerevan. FM Mirzoyan in Washington DC. Normalization Round 3.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/135/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/124-armenia-s-regional-challenges-a-conversation-with-tatev-hayrapetyan-february-26-2022/Sat, 26 Feb 2022 04:13:11 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/124-armenia-s-regional-challenges-a-conversation-with-tatev-hayrapetyan-february-26-2022/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/124-armenia-s-regional-challenges-a-conversation-with-tatev-hayrapetyan-february-26-2022/Sat, 26 Feb 2022 04:13:11 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/124-armenia-s-regional-challenges-a-conversation-with-tatev-hayrapetyan-february-26-2022/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Tatev&rsquo;s Background and Entrance into Politics. Armenia Going in the Wrong Direction? Aliyev and his Regime after the 44-Day War. The Shushi and Moscow Agreements. Armenia&rsquo;s Foreign Affairs Establishment.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/124/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/106-zoom-for-democracy-domestic-regional-politics-artsakh-independence-at-30-ep-106-dec-12-2021/Mon, 13 Dec 2021 03:15:02 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/106-zoom-for-democracy-domestic-regional-politics-artsakh-independence-at-30-ep-106-dec-12-2021/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/106-zoom-for-democracy-domestic-regional-politics-artsakh-independence-at-30-ep-106-dec-12-2021/Mon, 13 Dec 2021 03:15:02 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/106-zoom-for-democracy-domestic-regional-politics-artsakh-independence-at-30-ep-106-dec-12-2021/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Zoom for Democracy. Domestic Politics. Regional Politics. Artsakh Independence at 30. Analyst Rants.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/106/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/103-russia-nato-escalation-border-escalation-goodbye-moscow-hello-brussels-protests-in-yerevan-ep-101-nov-14-2021/Mon, 22 Nov 2021 17:54:38 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/103-russia-nato-escalation-border-escalation-goodbye-moscow-hello-brussels-protests-in-yerevan-ep-101-nov-14-2021/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/103-russia-nato-escalation-border-escalation-goodbye-moscow-hello-brussels-protests-in-yerevan-ep-101-nov-14-2021/Mon, 22 Nov 2021 17:54:38 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/103-russia-nato-escalation-border-escalation-goodbye-moscow-hello-brussels-protests-in-yerevan-ep-101-nov-14-2021/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Russia-NATO escalation. Border escalation. Goodbye Moscow, Hello Brussels! Protests in Yerevan.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/103/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/89-independence-day-pashinyan-s-turkish-overtures-goris-kapan-highway-ep-89-sep-19-2021/Tue, 21 Sep 2021 14:34:42 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/89-independence-day-pashinyan-s-turkish-overtures-goris-kapan-highway-ep-89-sep-19-2021/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/89-independence-day-pashinyan-s-turkish-overtures-goris-kapan-highway-ep-89-sep-19-2021/Tue, 21 Sep 2021 14:34:42 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/89-independence-day-pashinyan-s-turkish-overtures-goris-kapan-highway-ep-89-sep-19-2021/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Independence Day. Pashinyan&rsquo;s Turkish overtures. Goris-Kapan highway.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/89/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/81-escalation-in-yeraskh-gunpoint-diplomacy-armenian-emigration-guests-trip-report-ep-81-july-25-2021/Tue, 27 Jul 2021 12:03:28 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/81-escalation-in-yeraskh-gunpoint-diplomacy-armenian-emigration-guests-trip-report-ep-81-july-25-2021/<h2 id="escalation-in-yeraskh">Escalation in Yeraskh</h2> <p>Last week when the border instability around Yeraskh started and were heating up, Aliyev went to Moscow for a one on one meeting with Putin. The message that we read right before, during and after that meeting from the three OSCE Minsk group co-chairs was that “a lasting and comprehensive” peace needs to be hammered out. Aliyev returned to Baku and said that he had already solved the Artsakh issue, that other paths to peace would be “wrong and risky”. The news reported that Putin had told Aliyev to seek a compromise solution. Pashinyan has rejected that the Artsakh issue is resolved.</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/81-escalation-in-yeraskh-gunpoint-diplomacy-armenian-emigration-guests-trip-report-ep-81-july-25-2021/Tue, 27 Jul 2021 12:03:28 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/81-escalation-in-yeraskh-gunpoint-diplomacy-armenian-emigration-guests-trip-report-ep-81-july-25-2021/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Escalation in Yeraskh. “Peace Treaty” at Gunpoint. Emigration out of Armenia. Trip Report from Our Guests.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/81/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/69-giro-manoyan-arf-dashnaktsutyun-roadmap-challenges-conversation/Fri, 11 Jun 2021 19:13:50 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/69-giro-manoyan-arf-dashnaktsutyun-roadmap-challenges-conversation/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/69-giro-manoyan-arf-dashnaktsutyun-roadmap-challenges-conversation/Fri, 11 Jun 2021 19:13:50 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/69-giro-manoyan-arf-dashnaktsutyun-roadmap-challenges-conversation/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>ARF-Dashnaktsutyun: Roadmap and Challenges. Giro Manoyan has been a member of the ARF-D Bureau since 2015. Originally from Beirut, Lebanon, he moved to Montreal, Canada in 1976. He has served as the Executive Secretary. The ARF in the Politics of Armenia.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/69/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/67-robert-markarian-iran-foreign-relations-upcoming-elections-ep-66-06-07-2021/Mon, 07 Jun 2021 03:10:16 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/67-robert-markarian-iran-foreign-relations-upcoming-elections-ep-66-06-07-2021/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/67-robert-markarian-iran-foreign-relations-upcoming-elections-ep-66-06-07-2021/Mon, 07 Jun 2021 03:10:16 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/67-robert-markarian-iran-foreign-relations-upcoming-elections-ep-66-06-07-2021/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Iran: Foreign Relations and Upcoming Elections. A Conversation with Robert Markarian. The South Caucasus comprises Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. The three regional powers surrounding them are Russia to the north, Turkey to the west, and Iran in the south.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/67/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>https://podcasts.groong.org/60-armenia-russia-iran-russia-iran-armenia-election-latest-polls-sargsyan-ep-60-may-2-2021/Mon, 03 May 2021 01:27:16 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/60-armenia-russia-iran-russia-iran-armenia-election-latest-polls-sargsyan-ep-60-may-2-2021/<p>Show Notes</p>https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/60-armenia-russia-iran-russia-iran-armenia-election-latest-polls-sargsyan-ep-60-may-2-2021/Mon, 03 May 2021 01:27:16 +0000https://podcasts.groong.org/watch/60-armenia-russia-iran-russia-iran-armenia-election-latest-polls-sargsyan-ep-60-may-2-2021/<h2 id="episode-summary">Episode Summary</h2> <p>Armenia-Russia Relations and the New Cold War. Iran-Russia and Iran-Armenia Relations. Election Politics and the Latest MPG Polls. Serge Sargsyan&rsquo;s Interview.</p> <div class="watch-notes"> <a class="watch-notes-button" href="https://podcasts.groong.org/60/"> Go to Episode Notes </a> </div>