Between 12 and 14 senior figures have reportedly been detained, sparking accusations that the charges are politically motivated. To counter perceived Russian influence, the PM has had senior figures arrested, criticised the Catholicos and pressured bishops to comply. The break between Pashinyan and the Church began in 2020, following Armenia’s defeat in the war against Azerbaijan, which resulted in the loss of Nagorno-Karabakh. He he has been strongly criticised for that move by senior figures in the Church. “By targeting the Church, Pashinyan faces no organised rival and could potentially win [the upcoming election] despite low public support,” Ferrari concluded.