The political climate in Armenia is currently a hotbed of tension, as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan finds himself embroiled in the ongoing crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh. The situation has reached a critical juncture, eliciting widespread public discontent and igniting protests in the capital city of Yerevan. Once celebrated for spearheading the democratic “Velvet Revolution” of 2018, Pashinyan now finds himself at the focal point of public indignation.
For the third consecutive day, manifestations of anti-government sentiment have been evident in Yerevan, where protesters are demanding more effective governance and crisis management concerning Nagorno-Karabakh. The swift victory of Azerbaijan in the disputed region has set off large-scale anti-government rallies, further unsettling an already volatile political environment.
The disillusionment with Pashinyan is palpable, as cries of “Nikol is a traitor” and references to the 1915 genocide echo through the crowds gathered at Republic Square in Yerevan. The sentiment emanates from the perception that Pashinyan has forsaken the Armenian cause by relinquishing control over significant portions of Nagorno-Karabakh to Azerbaijan.
The capitulation of the Armenian military in the face of Azerbaijan’s rapid offensive has only amplified the calls for Pashinyan’s resignation. Despite several ceasefire violations, the truce in Nagorno-Karabakh remains largely intact, albeit fragile. This has done little to quell the rising tide of anti-government protests, which continue to escalate with each passing day.
The situation is further complicated by the deployment of peacekeeping forces in central Yerevan, their metallic shields clanging ominously as they strive to maintain order. The atmosphere is fraught with tension, according to Le Figaro, and the public’s patience is wearing thin as the government’s handling of the Nagorno-Karabakh crisis continues to draw criticism.
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is in a precarious position, caught between the anvil of public opinion and the hammer of geopolitical realities. The unfolding events in Armenia serve as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in governing a nation at the intersection of history and modernity. As the crisis continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the Armenian government will navigate these tumultuous waters.
