Armenian Archbishop Accused of Attempted Terror Attack and Power Seizure

According to sources in the law enforcement agencies of the Republic of Armenia, the Investigative Committee has brought charges against the leader of the Armenian opposition movement “Sacred Struggle”, Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan. He is accused of allegedly attempting to carry out a terrorist act with the aim of seizing power. This was reported by several sources, including the Telegram channel “Black and White”.

On the morning of June 25, officers of Armenia’s National Security Service conducted a search at the archbishop’s residence, after which he was arrested and taken away by law enforcement. Searches were also carried out at the homes of supporters of the “Sacred Struggle” movement and members of the Dashnaktsutyun party. According to preliminary reports, around 30 opposition figures were targeted. The National Security Service stated that with the prior agreement of several associates, the archbishop allegedly acquired tools and materials necessary for committing terrorist acts and unlawfully seizing power.

Before getting into the law enforcement vehicle, Archbishop Galstanyan stated: “Evil, listen carefully — whatever you’ve done, you have very little time left. Hang on, we’re coming.” Supporters gathered outside his home then began chanting “Nikol, traitor,” in reference to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

The day before, on June 24, Armenian media outlet Civic published documents allegedly indicating that opposition forces were preparing a coup d’état. The publication quickly spread across social media, including platforms associated with the prime minister. In his own commentary, Pashinyan described the events as “a failed coup attempt by fraudsters.”

Earlier, it was reported that the Armenian Apostolic Church is building a line of defense in response to a campaign by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, which Etchmiadzin views as an attempt to interfere in church affairs, including efforts to replace the Catholicos. Archbishop Arshak Khachatryan, head of the Etchmiadzin Chancellery, stated that the government’s anti-clerical rhetoric is aimed at distracting society from real problems — especially the loss of Artsakh. According to him, instead of fulfilling its direct responsibilities, the country’s leadership is fabricating false agendas and targeting imaginary enemies.