The arrest of Ghukasyan is a political absurdity. Zakharova

22.01.2026 18:37 | Category Politics

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, commented on the criminal prosecution against Gyumri Mayor Vardan Ghukasyan, who is currently in custody.

Zakharova repeated that criminal prosecution for statements in favor of strengthening relations with a traditional ally is absurd in itself.

Russia has always defended and remains loyal to the idea of Armenia being a sovereign, independent and prosperous state. And this commitment is not just words. These are the steps that are taken based on this political logic and will, he added during the briefing.

He also noted that the reaction of the Armenian leadership to Ghukasyan's statements is surprisingly inconsistent with how Yerevan sometimes prefers to ignore the comments of a number of countries, including European countries.

"...We have not seen any judicial process, let alone arrests, against those who call to enter the European Union without looking back. Joining the EU, however, is really about giving up a part of sovereignty. This approach coincides with one of the articles of the RA Criminal Code. Why not hold accountable those who, by pushing Armenia towards the EU, literally call on the country to give up its sovereignty, in whole or in part? Let them see what is happening inside the EU now," he added.

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The arrest of Ghukasyan is a political absurdity. Zakharova

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