Experts are highlighting a rise in disinformation targeting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his government ahead of the June parliamentary elections. This surge, linked to Russia, is characterized by an organized and sophisticated campaign, with an array of AI-generated content such as photos and deepfakes emerging in Armenia’s information space for the first time.
Research indicates that these narratives aim to undermine trust in Armenian institutions and discredit the country’s engagement with the West, potentially creating room for more Kremlin-friendly voices. Messaging from pro-Russian media often portrays the Armenian government as corrupt and suggests that Western nations are a threat, while portraying Russia as Armenia’s only reliable protector.
Tensions between Armenia and Russia have escalated since Pashinyan took power in 2018, particularly after Armenia criticized Moscow for failing to meet security obligations during Azerbaijani conflicts in 2021 and 2022. Amidst this rift, Armenia has accused Russia of waging a “hybrid war,” but Moscow denies any interference.
Russia is employing various tactics to influence Armenia’s narrative, including bot networks and impersonating media outlets to disseminate fabricated content. A specific bot network, Matryoshka, previously involved in disinformation campaigns in other countries, has increasingly targeted Pashinyan since June. The combination of local pro-Russian voices and Kremlin-linked external actors appears to shape the information landscape in Armenia ahead of the elections.
As the electoral date approaches, experts warn that tactics employed in neighboring countries may be replicated in Armenia, suggesting an escalation of disinformation efforts as the election draws near.
