On June 25, Armenian authorities arrested Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan and 13 others, accusing them of plotting to overthrow the government. According to Armenia's Investigative Committee, criminal charges were filed against Galstanyan and 15 others for allegedly preparing to commit a terrorist act and seize power, including gathering the necessary tools and weapons. Investigators confirmed that 14 individuals had been detained but did not disclose all names.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated on Telegram that the government had thwarted a major plot by what he called a “criminal-oligarchic clergy” aiming to take control of the country. The arrest reflects escalating tensions between Pashinyan and the Armenian Apostolic Church, which have intensified ahead of next year's elections.

Some high-ranking clergy have publicly demanded Pashinyan’s resignation, particularly after Armenia’s military setbacks against Azerbaijan. Last week, Russian-Armenian billionaire Samvel Karapetyan was also arrested for allegedly encouraging the overthrow of the government. He had accused authorities of targeting the church and threatened to act independently. His lawyers deny any wrongdoing.

Galstanyan’s lawyer, Sergei Arutyunyan, claims the charges are politically motivated, accusing the government of fabricating a narrative to distract from real issues and label the cleric as part of a terrorist group. Pashinyan, who came to power during 2018 street protests, has faced criticism since Armenia's 2020 defeat in a war with Azerbaijan. In 2023, Azerbaijan fully reclaimed Nagorno-Karabakh, a region long controlled by ethnic Armenians.

Galstanyan and his followers, capitalizing on public frustration over the losses, led large protests last summer demanding Pashinyan’s ouster. Authorities now accuse Galstanyan of recruiting over 1,000 people — including former soldiers and police — to block roads, disrupt internet access, stir unrest, and ultimately destabilize the government. The Investigative Committee released audio recordings allegedly capturing coup discussions and displayed images of firearms they say were found during the investigation. Meanwhile, Pashinyan is pursuing a peace agreement with Azerbaijan, though tensions persist and ceasefire violations have reportedly increased this year.