Authorities betrayed us for money, and now they are imprisoning priests and philanthropists – The People Speak

As part of “The People Speak” project, Alpha News conducted surveys in Yerevan and Armenian communities in the US and Russia to find out citizens’ opinions on the most pressing issues.

Responding to a question about Armenian-Turkish relations, one citizen noted that it is not necessary to be hostile with everyone, but it is important to know who is a friend and who is an enemy, and draw conclusions.

“Some kind of relations are needed, but borders must be respected. History has shown that nothing good has ever come from Turkey for us. I myself was born in Kirovabad, from where my parents later fled. My grandmother always said: with Turks one must be careful. They take our lands, destroy all our heritage,” said one respondent.

According to another citizen, nobody asked the people about this.

“Did anyone ask us? I strongly disagree with establishing relations with the Turks. A state that committed genocide against your people, still does not recognize it, and continues to be a threat. With such a state, I believe, relations cannot be established,” he noted.

When asked about Armenia’s security, citizens expressed concern, noting that the current government treats this issue lightly.

“Armenia’s security today is weak. I believe the government does not take it seriously. At the border, unfortunately, there is no security, although inside the country, thank God, everything is calm. I think the residents of Goris and border regions try to reassure themselves that everything will be fine, but in any case they are worried,” another respondent said.

Another participant emphasized that the head of state should be experienced and come from a military background.

“I believe that the head of state should be a military person. Civilians, let’s say, are not the right government, because the country should be led by a military man—and only a military man. This is my personal opinion. Ordinary people should do their work, and the country’s security should be handled by decisive military men,” said the citizen.

Respondents believe that the Armenian Prime Minister does not solve problems, but only provokes confrontation with the Church.

“It is very bad that they treat the Church this way. Therefore, I am, of course, against priests being imprisoned. If there is a problem, Pashinyan will not solve it—he just stirs the waters. He does not have such a goal when he talks about problems,” said one survey participant.

Citizens further expressed disagreement with the authorities’ actions against philanthropist and businessman Samvel Karapetyan, noting that such steps are unacceptable and only increase public discontent and protest sentiment.

“How can you imprison such a person for one statement? I heard that he helped Armenia a lot—both financially and morally. I am against his imprisonment. I support everything being resolved peacefully,” another citizen said.