Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has announced that significant personnel changes are expected within the Armenian Armed Forces following the death of military serviceman Grigor Zakaryan. Pashinyan stated that appropriate decisions regarding those responsible for the incident will be made in the near future.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Pashinyan told reporters after a government meeting that he had discussed the situation with Defense Minister Suren Papikyan earlier that morning.
Pashinyan specifically highlighted that changes will be implemented within the Military Police and the Department of Moral and Psychological Support. The Prime Minister emphasized that the failure of these departments to achieve expected results will be thoroughly investigated.
"I have already made my decision: there will be changes in the Military Police, and updates will also affect the Department of Moral and Psychological Support. Conclusions will be drawn, and yes, the issue of individual responsibility is inevitable," Pashinyan stated.
While the Armenian head of government rejected the notion that the country's military-political leadership bears direct responsibility for all deaths occurring within the army, he maintained confidence in the efforts of the Chief of General Staff and the Defense Minister to address existing systemic problems. Nevertheless, he reiterated that changes in specific institutions and responsible positions remain unavoidable.
The Armenian military has faced recurring scrutiny over non-combat deaths and disciplinary issues within its ranks. These incidents often trigger public debate and calls for institutional reform, reflecting broader challenges in managing the country's defense infrastructure.
