Armenia: Opposing demonstrations ongoing in Yerevan Feb. 25

Event

Police have arrested a number of protesters following low-level clashes between rival groups of demonstrators in Yerevan Feb. 25. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is leading a previously unannounced demonstration to Republic Square, where he will deliver a speech at 1600 denouncing the military's call for his resignation. The demonstration is proceeding along Amiryan Street and Mashtots Avenue. Anti-Pashinyan and opposition activists previously announced they would gather in Republic Square from 1500; many are already gathered in the square, and tensions are high between the rival groups of demonstrators. Police have intervened on several occasions to keep the two groups separate and avoid widespread clashes ahead of Pashinyan's speech. Small groups of opposition demonstrators have also blocked traffic elsewhere in the city center, including on Myasnikyan Avenue and Azatutyan Avenue; further impromptu opposition actions are likely throughout the day.

A heavy police presence has deployed to Republic Square, as well as in Freedom Square and outside several government buildings. Security forces will almost certainly respond quickly to any disruptive or unauthorized actions. Further clashes are possible between demonstrators and security personnel, as well as between opposing activists.

Advice

Avoid all related demonstrations in Yerevan as a security precaution. Allow additional time for travel throughout the city center. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation; do not stop to take photographs.