Alleged Russian-Linked Coup Plot Thwarted in Armenia, Government Reports

Armenia’s National Security Service has announced the discovery of a conspiracy to “usurp power through prior collusion,” involving individuals who were allegedly trained in Russia. This information was reported by News.am.

According to the Armenian intelligence agency, the plotters sought to seize control of the Armenian government and were promised approximately $2,860 per month for their efforts throughout 2024. The conspirators reportedly recruited Armenian citizens and former residents of Nagorno-Karabakh under the pretext of “three-month training” in Russia and “familiarization with new types of heavy weapons,” followed by combat duty upon their return to Armenia.

The recruits were transported to Russia for training at a military base named “Arbat,” which also refers to a unit involved in recruiting Armenians for the conflict against Ukraine. During their training, the recruits were instructed in “close-quarters combat” using weapons they were already familiar with. The objective of these training sessions was reportedly to return to Armenia and overthrow the current government, under the guise of saving and purifying the nation.

Some of those recruited opposed the coup and returned home. Armenia’s National Security Service has initiated criminal proceedings against seven individuals involved in the plot, with three currently detained and four others wanted.

This development comes as Armenia, previously a close ally of Russia in the South Caucasus, gradually shifts its alignment towards the West. This shift is partly attributed to Armenia’s dissatisfaction with Russia’s inability to defend it from Azerbaijan.

Recently, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan criticized the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), accusing it of failing to ensure Armenia’s security and posing a threat to its sovereignty. He also suggested that Armenia might consider pursuing EU membership if feasible.