21 Apr 2021 | 08:45 AM UTC
Armenia: Anti-Pashinyan protests ongoing in Syunik Province April 21
Anti-Pashinyan protests ongoing in Agarak and Meghri, in Syunik Province, Armenia April 21. Increased security, disruptions likely.
Event
Residents are currently staging protests in the towns of Agarak and Meghri, Syunik Province, April 21, denouncing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who is conducting an impromptu visit to the southern region. Residents of Agarak earlier attempted to block Pashinyan's motorcade, preventing him from leading a march there. Clashes with security forces have been reported in both towns, where hundreds of residents are continuing protests.
Localized traffic disruptions are likely. Police will almost certainly respond quickly to any further attempts to blockade traffic. Further clashes are possible between demonstrators and security personnel. Additionally, Pashinyan will likely continue his tour of the province through April 21. Additional protests denouncing the prime minister will likely accompany his visits to other locations.
Advice
Avoid the ongoing demonstrations as a precaution. Allow additional time for travel in the affected areas. Keep away from areas where security forces appear to be deploying. Heed the instructions of local authorities. If violence erupts nearby, leave the area immediately and take refuge in a secure nongovernmental building.
