Robert Kocharyan: A symbol of defeat cannot bring dignified peace

Second Armenian President Robert Kocharyan expressed deep skepticism about the peace process led by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

“I don’t believe a symbol of defeat can bring about a dignified peace,” Kocharyan said in an interview with four media outlets on Monday.

“The man leading this process is driven by personal motives. He’s seeking a piece of paper about himself, rather than peace,” the ex-president stated.

Kocharyan warned that any potential agreement with Azerbaijan may be symbolic and politically motivated rather than substantive. He described Pashinyan as a “failed leader who is merely trying to cling to power at any cost”, dismissing the likelihood of any meaningful diplomatic breakthrough.

Kocharyan also questioned the government’s commitment to securing the release of Armenian prisoners, particularly Artsakh’s former military and political leaders. He stated that the authorities view them as potential threats due to their influence, preferring instead to keep them sidelined.

“We all want peace. But the problem lies with the person pursuing it. His actions reflect fear, submission and a lack of national interest. His body language clearly shows that nothing good can come from his leadership,” Kocharyan emphasized.