Russian Propaganda's Grip on Armenia's Media Landscape

In the aftermath of Azerbaijan's offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh, a closer examination of Armenia's media landscape reveals a complex web of pro-Russian propaganda, subtly influencing public opinion through various online platforms. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union on September 23, 1991, Armenia has grappled with the persistent influence of pro-Russian politicians, who have sought to maintain their sway through strategic maneuvers, notably in the realm of social media.

To comprehend the situation, it's crucial to revisit history.

Since gaining independence, Armenia and Azerbaijan have been embroiled in several wars over Nagorno Karabakh. These conflicts resulted in the loss of lives on both sides, creating a hostile atmosphere. What becomes evident is the role of propaganda in fueling animosity between the two nations.

Amidst the conflict, pro-Russian politicians have played a significant role in propagating divisive narratives. Evidence suggests that Russia has a vested interest in maintaining the Nagorno Karabakh conflict to influence the region. Similar patterns have emerged in other post-Soviet countries like Ukraine and Georgia.

A notable example is Ukraine, which expressed interest in joining the European Union. In response, Russia initiated a war, unsettling the region, trying to prevent Ukraine's pro-European aspirations. The parallels between Ukraine's situation and Armenia's post-conflict scenario are striking.

Is Armenia Leaning towards the EU or Russia?

According to studies from September 19 to 20th of November of 2023 indicate that as Armenia leaned towards the EU, Russian propaganda factions within the country tried to destabilized the situation. This destabilization was coupled with a surge in propaganda favoring Russian interests and opposing EU integration. The goal appears to be sowing discord to impede Armenia's alignment with the EU.

The focal point of the research is the period after September 19, 2023, until 20th of November a critical juncture marked by Azerbaijan's invasion. Russian propaganda intensified during this time, perpetuating narratives that fueled animosity and hindered reconciliation efforts. As the Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said on November 18th Yerevan and Baku are “still speaking different diplomatic languages” in talks.

Russian propaganda in Armenia, especially post-September 19, 2023, is a concerning phenomenon with deep historical roots. As Armenia strives for stability and progress, it is imperative to recognize and counteract the divisive narratives that serve external interests. By understanding the dynamics at play, Armenians can foster unity and navigate a path towards a more harmonious future.

Armenian pro-Russian media channels

Bellow, you can find examples of Armenian pro-Russian media channels, that are spreading Russian propaganda.

The English transcripts from the screenshots from Լուրեր Info and Հայաստանն այսօր:

A new order from the Kremlin, Armenia must renounce, SCANDALOUS... Read in the comments (Լուրեր Info)

Robert Kocharian must be brought to power to save the country - Hovhannes Shahinyan.(Լուրեր Info)

Bad news, they were hiding this from the whole nation, Nicole gave a furious order. (Հայաստանն այսօր (Armenia today))

Investigation focused on several websites (Radio Sputnik Armenia, Vendeto.am, erevanblog.am, eastvillageleslieville.com) actively disseminating pro-Russian propaganda, often adopting a two-fold strategy: criticising the current Armenian government while glorifying the previous administration that was ousted in a revolution.

In 2018, Armenia experienced a significant transformation known as the Velvet Revolution. Dissatisfaction with the government, particularly under the longstanding rule of Serzh Sargsyan, fueled public discontent. Led by Nikol Pashinyan, citizens took to the streets in protest. Although Pashinyan was initially arrested, he was subsequently released. Remarkably, on the very same day, Sargsyan resigned, acknowledging the validity of the public's concerns.

The revolution unfolded peacefully, akin to similar movements in other post-Soviet countries. Following strategic political maneuvers, Nikol Pashinyan assumed the role of Prime Minister, steering Armenia towards a closer alignment with European values.

Past leaders in Armenia, such as Robert Qocharyan and Serj Sargsyan, were strongly aligned with Russia, with Serj Sargsyan even though he denied being pro-Russian, stating that Armenia has no better ally than Russia. However, the current government and the public aim to reduce connections with Russia, build stronger bonds with Europe, and enhance relations with neighboring countries, including Iran.

A common thread among these websites is the ownership —some belonging to either a single individual or organization. Striking similarities, such as identical design elements, background pictures, and even a peculiar use of Russian letters instead of Armenian script, became evident upon closer inspection.

An example from Radio Sputnik Armenia where the reporter portrays the statement of the head of the EU diplomatic department, Josep Borrell as a threat to the citizens of Armenia

The English translation of the statement stated below

The statement of the head of the EU diplomatic department, Josep Borrell, that Europe will be very vigilant towards any attempt to destabilize Armenia, is a threat to the citizens of Armenia, both internally and externally. Commentator Arman Abovyan said on the air of "Abovyan Time".

During the program, Abovyan also referred to Nikol Pashinyan's non-participation in the CSTO Council session in Belarus, Armenia-Europe, Armenia-Russia relations and other geopolitical events.

Vendeto.am is involved in disseminating misinformation and propaganda. In a statement, an unidentified individual discusses an alleged diversion attack by Azerbaijani forces in Armenia, despite the absence of any official announcements on the matter.

Erevanblog.am writes, “Russian-Azerbaijani war. Putin did not rule out eliminating Azerbaijan”

This misguided article by pro-Russian propagandists aims to falsely portray Russia as a benevolent ally to Armenia, claiming to express concern for Armenians. The ludicrous suggestion that Russia is prepared to combat Azerbaijan on Armenia's behalf is nothing short of nonsensical.

Here is an another example of the above mentioned: /eastvillageleslieville.com with Russian letters

The armenian text looks like this:

Հարգելի ընթերցողներ, ձեզ ենք ներկայացնում կարևոր հաղորդագրություն այն մասին, թե ինչ որոշում է կայացրել վարչապետ Նիկոլ Փաշինյանը։ Ինչպես հայտնում է կառավարության պաշտոնական կայքը։

Վարչապետ Նիկոլ Փաշինյանը որոշում է ստորագրել, որում նշվում է.

«Ղեկավարվելով «Հանրային ծառայության մասին» օրենքի 9-րդ հոդվածի 6-րդ մասով՝ Արեն Եղիազարյանին ազատել պետական վերահսկողական ծառայության ղեկավարի տեղակալի ժամանակավոր պաշտոնակատարի պաշտոնից»,- նշված է որոշման մեջ։

Here you can see the difference of letters Armenian ա which is similar to Russian ш and ո which is similar to п.

In the collage below, you'll notice that the Facebook accounts Newvideo.am1 and Լրահոս linked to eastvillageleslieville.com media outlet share identical background pictures. These images prominently feature the campaign logo of the Armenian political party "Country of Living" led by politician Ruben Vardanyan, known for his pro-Russian stance. He is Russian-Armenian oligarch, former adviser to Vladimir Putin, and a former politician who served as the State Minister of Artsakh.

The primary modus operandi of these platforms is the spread of disinformation, creating narratives suggesting that certain politicians have threatened Azerbaijan or fabricating disasters in the region to evoke emotional responses. Notably, during periods of reduced activity, the websites pivot to sensationalism, crafting stories about the demise or misfortune of famous personalities to sustain engagement.

The translations are mentioned below accordingly.

1. Minutes ago... A powerful explosion in Azerbaijan. the whole country, including Baku, is in a panic. What happened? (ArmNews INFO)

2. Good news. Erdogan suffered a stroke. The speech was cancelled. (Լուրեր Info)

3. Now there is a big flood in Turkey. The situation got out of control. Erdogan's days are numbered...(Լուրեր Info)

4. URGENT! To the east of the epicenter in Azerbaijan MAJOR Atrocities Watch in the comments. (Լուրեր Info)

As Armenia navigates the post-conflict landscape, there is ongoing trouble between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the Caucasus. The ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh and on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, after the 2020 war, has been violated. In December 2022, Azerbaijan blockaded Artsakh and in September 2023, they launched a big military operation, leading to the surrender of Artsakh authorities. The role of media in shaping public perception becomes increasingly crucial. Recognizing and challenging the influence of these pro-Russian propaganda outlets is vital for fostering a more informed and objective public discourse in the country.