Archbishop Arshak denies videos, calls them fake

PanARMENIAN.Net - Archbishop Arshak Khachatryan has denied the authenticity of videos circulating online, claiming they are fabrications intended to discredit him.

At a press conference, he stated the controversy surrounding him is politically motivated. “Although the authorities disliked my stance, I still say they must leave office as soon as possible,” he said, according to Sputnik Armenia.

He explained that following his public criticism of the current administration, he was summoned multiple times by the National Security Service. “These were not official summonses but invitation-style meetings. We exchanged viewpoints. There were some implied suggestions, but it became clear I am not someone who can be pressured or intimidated into actions that go against my convictions.”

Referring to the scandalous recordings allegedly linked to him, he insisted they bear no connection to his life or conduct. “There’s nothing in my life I’m ashamed of. That doesn’t mean I’m sinless. I’ve committed many sins, but those accusations have absolutely nothing to do with me or my biography,” he said.

He reiterated that the videos are fake. “I am not someone who can be coerced into renouncing his beliefs. No threat, no terror can force me to act against my conscience.”

Archbishop Khachatryan emphasized that since 2020, his vocal criticism of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s policies has made him a target.

He said the recently circulated footage is fabricated and misrepresents reality, aiming to obstruct his work in both political and spiritual contexts.

A Telegram channel named “Armenian WikiLeaks” published an intimate video on October 25, claiming it depicted Archbishop Arshak Khachatryan. The clergyman responded by saying he would not waste energy refuting slander and considered it more reasonable to ignore such fabrications.