Weekly review of Armenian News from https://groong.org.Keeping up with news related to Armenia and Armenians can be challenging: the sheer volume of news in the past few years has increased greatly, and along with that volume, we’ve seen the rise of the “Fake News” phenomenon contributing to the erosion of trust in the news media.The diversity of languages used by the worldwide Armenian community also poses a challenge for Armenian news; there is a significant portion of news that originates in Armenian, sometimes in Russian, and does not get adequately translated into English, or Western Armenian, for those in the Diaspora who are not proficient in Eastern Armenian. Finally, with the COVID-19 pandemic and the political turbulence in countries where significant communities of the Armenian Diaspora reside, be it Syria, Lebanon, the United States, etc., many of our friends and colleagues indicate that they’re simply overloaded with information and lack the time and energy to separate the good from the bad. So we’re creating this weekly digest of news and analysis that we find relevant to share with our friends and the wider ANN/Groong audience. Our goal is to provide a brief overview of the main headlines of the past week, and then cover a smaller set of the more important developments, curated by ANN/Groong editors and contributors who spend an inordinate amount of time daily to process Armenian news. We hope that over time this podcast will help our listeners in becoming more astute consumers of Armenian news. We will strive to provide a rich set of notes with each installation, with links to the most relevant articles and information as a starting point for your further investigation.
Armenia
Groong Week in Review - April 12, 2026In this episode, we examine a fast-moving regional and political landscape, from the collapse of the US-Iran talks in Islamabad and the threat of a new naval blockade, to Viktor Orban's election loss in Hungary and what it may signal for Armenia and the wider region. We also dig into new polling from Armenia, including public views on security, the Iran war, free speech, voter turnout, and party support ahead of the 2026 elections. Along the way, we look at the Abkhaz railway as a possible alternative trade route, questions around TRIPP and Armenia's growing dependence on Azerbaijan and Turkey, and what the latest numbers may reveal about the strength, weakness, and strategy of Armenia's opposition.Topics: US-Iran Talks in PakistanOrban Loses Hungary ElectionsArmenian Parliamentary ElectionsPolls: MPG, IRI, ARAR, EVNGuest: Hrant MikaelianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 531 | Recorded: April 14, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/531VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ZzhV5xsXFks#Armenia #IranWar #ArmenianPolitics #HungaryElections #ArmeniaPollsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - April 5, 2026Topics:Iran War Update2016 April WarAftermath of Pashinyan in MoscowDomestic Politics & ElectionHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 530 | Recorded: April 7, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/530VIDEO: https://youtu.be/QAkX9PiR484#Groong #Armenia #IranWar #Pashinyan #ArmenianNewsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - April 4, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, Pietro Shakarian joins Hovik and Asbed to examine the Iran war, its impact on Russia, Ukraine, and the wider Eurasian balance, and what it means for Armenia's security and foreign policy. The discussion also looks at Pashinyan's strained Moscow visit, the uncertain future of TRIPP, Armenia-Russia tensions, and the fast-forming landscape of Armenia's June parliamentary elections, including the opposition field, campaign narratives, and the stakes for the country's political future.Topics: - The Iran War and Its Global Impacts - Armenia-Russia Relations - Parliamentary Elections in ArmeniaGuest: Pietro ShakarianHosts: - Hovik Manucharyan - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 529 | Recorded: April 3, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/529#IranIsraelWar #IsraelIranConflict #IsraelConflict #Armenia #MiddleEastCrisis#ArmeniaElections #PietroShakarian #TRIPPSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - March 29, 2026Our guest Anna Karapetyan focused on the widening Iran war and its possible fallout for Armenia, then turned to the narratives shaping Armenia's election season. The discussion examined Pashinyan's claim to have delivered peace, the taboo around speaking about Artsakh and Artsakhtsis' rights, the uncertainty around the TRIPP corridor project, the political use of fear that an opposition victory would bring war, and the security and environmental questions surrounding a proposed AI data center. In the closing segment, the participants reflected on the broader propaganda environment in Armenia and on Formula 1's continued partnership with authoritarian states such as Azerbaijan.TopicsIran war escalation and spilloverPashinyan's Fake “peace” narrativesElections built on fear-mongeringSilencing talk of ArtsakhGuestAnna KarapetyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 528 | Recorded: March 30, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/528Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - March 22, 2026This Week in Review featured Asbed and Hovik without a guest. We discussed the death of Georgian Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II and the Armenian government's blocking of Catholicos of all Armenians Karekin II from attending the funeral; the latest turn in the Iran war and what it could mean for Armenia and the wider region; Israel's renewed ground operation in southern Lebanon; and Armenia's June elections, including political prisoners, media freedom, Civil Contract's campaign tactics, the opposition field, EU involvement, and Strong Armenia's messaging on TRIPP and security.TopicsKarekin II travel-banned from attending Catholicos Ilia II FuneralIran War updateArmenian June ElectionsHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 527 | Recorded: March 23, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/527Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - March 22, 2026South Korean travel blogger YoungMin visited Artsakh after Azerbaijan's 2023 ethnic cleansing of Nagorno-Karabakh, becoming one of the few independent foreign visitors to document conditions on the ground after more than 100,000 Armenians were forced from their ancestral homeland. In this episode, YoungMin discusses what motivated his trip, what he saw in Stepanakert, Askeran, Agdam, and the surrounding areas, how Azerbaijani state narratives try to frame post-war tourism, and what the empty towns, damaged infrastructure, and erased Armenian presence reveal about the aftermath of the 44-Day War and the destruction of Artsakh.Topics: - YoungMin's journey into post-2023 Artsakh - Controlled access, guided narratives - Erasing traces of Armenians - In Agdam, Askeran, and Stepanakert - Memory, loss, and the aftermath of ethnic cleansingGuest: YoungMinHosts: - Hovik Manucharyan - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 526 | Recorded: March 21, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/526VIDEO: https://youtu.be/j9QYiYFnj68#artsakh #Armenia #YoungMin #NagornoKarabakh #EthnicCleansingSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - March 22, 2026Topics:Iran at WarThe Northern Front: Turkey & AzerbaijanChanging Nakhijevan's ConstitutionGuest: Eldar MamedovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 525 | Recorded: March 20, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/525VIDEO: https://youtu.be/pWd_-iNIM8E#GroongPodcast #EldarMamedov #IranWar #Azerbaijan #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - March 20, 2026Topics:Iran at WarThe Northern Front: Turkey & AzerbaijanChanging Nakhijevan's ConstitutionGuest: Varuzhan GeghamyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 524 | Recorded: March 19, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/524VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SQHD3lZxAwc#IranWar #VaruzhanGeghamyan #ZangezurCorridor #Syunik #ArmeniaGeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - March 20, 2026Topics - Why this war began - U.S. fallout and political costs - Paths to wider regional escalationGuest: Scott HortonHosts: - Hovik Manucharyan - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 523 | Recorded: March 20, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/523#IranWar #ScottHorton #USIsrael #MiddleEastWar #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - March 15, 2026Arthur Martirosyan examines the ongoing U.S.–Israel war on Iran and its uncertain trajectory, focusing on escalation risks, strategic objectives, and potential diplomatic offramps. The discussion then turns to regional spillover effects, particularly the risks for Armenia amid Iran–Azerbaijan tensions and broader geopolitical shifts. We conclude with an analysis of Armenia's upcoming parliamentary elections, including the fragmented opposition landscape, concerns about electoral fairness, and contradictions in public opinion reflected in recent polling.TopicsIran WarEffect on ArmeniaJune Parliamentary ElectionsGuestArthur G MartirosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 522 | Recorded: March 16, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/522Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
We discuss with Hrant Mikaelian the expanding war on Iran and what it could mean for the region. We took a close look at the latest IRI poll and its disputed methodology and findings, and the emerging shape of Armenia's parliamentary race. Hrant Mikaelian argued that Iran's leadership transition signals greater resolve rather than collapse, that Azerbaijan is still constrained from direct action against Iran unless the Iranian state seriously weakens, and that the IRI poll raises major methodological and interpretive questions. The discussion then turned to the opposition field in Armenia, where newer forces may have room to grow, but where media imbalance and weak opposition reach remain major structural obstacles.TopicsIran War UpdateIRI Poll ReviewPolitical LandscapeGuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 521 | Recorded: March 8, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/521Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - March 1, 2026TopicsUS and Israel launch war against IranDecapitation strikes, mass civilian casualtiesIran retaliates region-wide, war expandsArmenia leadership silentSumgait rememberedGuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 520 | Recorded: March 2, 2026#IranWar #EpicFury #MiddleEastWar #ArmeniaForeignPolicy #Sumgait1988 #IranIsraelConflictSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - February 22, 2026Topics:Iran War FearsJune Parliamentary ElectionsAttacks on the Armenian ChurchGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 519 | Recorded: February 25, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/519VIDEO: https://youtu.be/1FFkLOeY2lI#Armenia #Iran #ArmeniaElections #ArmenianChurch #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Deep History - February 24, 2026In the inaugural Groong Deep History episode, historian Prof. Zaroui Pogossian joins the show to unpack the Vardanank wars and the Battle of Avarayr (451 AD). The conversation sets the longer political and religious context behind the conflict, explains what we can and cannot know from the main Armenian sources, and revisits the standard “moral victory” story through modern source criticism. Pogossian also discusses her work on medieval Armenia and previews an upcoming scholarly volume on Medieval Yeghegis, then uses a critical reading by Hayk Hakobyan to question common assumptions about Avarayr's scale, geography, and strategy.Topics:Vardanank Wars and The Battle of AvarayrArmenian Sources, Yeghishe and ParpetsiPolitics, Christianity, Nakharar Power DynamicsGuest: Zaroui PogossianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 518 | Recorded: February 22, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/518VIDEO: https://youtu.be/1-o4Gv1v4vw #GroongDeepHistory #Vardanank #BattleOfAvarayr #ArmenianHistory #ZarouiPogossianSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - Feb 15, 2026TopicsVance visit, protocol and opticsTsitsernakaberd tweet, “autocorrect diplomacy”TRIPP corridor stake and sovereignty risksNuclear SMR deal, costs and dependencyFirebird AI project, power and valueDrones, church silence, Baku charter and prisonersHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 517 | Recorded: February 13, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/517VIDEO: https://youtu.be/4FEVG-lJVkE#Groong #Armenia #JDVance #Tsitsernakaberd #TRIPPSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - February 8, 2026TopicsA European View of AmericaJD Vance in ArmeniaPashinyan vs. The Armenian ChurchEurope and ArmeniaGuestPhilippe Raffi KalfayanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 516 | Recorded: February 9, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/516Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Global Affairs in the Age of Trump 2.0Conversations on GroongTopicsTrump 2.0 and the “Donroe Doctrine”Rules-Based Disorder?Iran vs. the “Big, Beautiful Armada”US Cohesion and MidtermsJD Vance in the South CaucasusGuestsJames CardenPietro ShakarianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 515 | Recorded: February 6, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/515Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - February 5, 2026Topics:Defining the “Canceling Russia” phenomenonThe “cancel Russia” lobbyContainment shifts to coercive transformationRussian Orthodox Church as battlegroundKremlin “towers” and civilizational logicBooks by Tsygankov:“Canceling” Russia (2026): https://a.co/d/0izauT7TRussia's Foreign Policy (2025): https://a.co/d/07NNNT6dGuest: Andrei TsygankovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 514 | Recorded: February 4, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/514VIDEO: https://youtu.be/WOLR5AuizEQ#CancelingRussia #RussianForeignPolicy #UkraineWar #StateCivilization #TowersOfTheKremlin #RussianOrthodoxChurchSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - February 4, 2026Topics:CSI Visits Jailed ClericIRF SummitPACE MP Speaks UpGuest: Joel VeldkampHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 513 | Recorded: February 3, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/513VIDEO: https://youtu.be/gi1yk302jts#ArmenianChurch #ReligiousFreedom #ClergyArrests #IRFSummit2026 #ChristianSolidarityInternationalSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - February 1, 2026Topics: - Iran Conflict - Varchaband - War on Armenian Church - Mehmet Oz vs Armenian Americans - Narek Karapetyan and Strong Armenia - A Big Beautiful NoragyughHosts: - Hovik Manucharyan - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 512 | Recorded: February 2, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/512VIDEO: https://youtu.be/XRHCT_8XE84#IranIsraelWar #TrumpArmada #ArmenianChurch #Pashinyan #ArmenianDiasporaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - Jan 31, 2026Topics: - Foreign intelligence service - FIS report, strategic gaps - Azerbaijan risk and deterrence - Hybrid threats and elections - TRIPP, AI, and data risksGuest: David DavidianHosts: - Hovik Manucharyan - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 511 | Recorded: Jan 28, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/511VIDEO: https://youtu.be/dMX6GW54Eek#Groong #Armenia #FIS #ForeignIntelligence #NationalSecurity #TRIPPSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - January 25, 2026Topics:Memorial Day vs. Army DayJD Vance to Armenia and AzerbaijanArmenian Church DevelopmentsStrong Armenia - New Political PartyGuest: Arthur KhachatryanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 510 | Recorded: January 27, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/510VIDEO: https://youtu.be/czqx5UCdFA0#GroongWeekInReview #Armenia #RulesBasedOrder #JDVance #TRIPP #ArmenianChurchSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Horovel and the Armenian Genocide | Ep 509, Jan 22, 2026The Critical Corner - Recorded on January 18, 2026TopicsHorovel, a cross-border memory projectOjakh, a second trip down memory laneGayan, a wider regional lensOur Seeds, continuity across generationsGuestErhan ArikHostsBedros AfeyanEpisode 508 | Recorded: January 18, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/509Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - January 18, 2026Topics:Syria, Kurds, Turkish advanceIran unrest, war postponedTRIPP and sovereignty dispute2026 elections, foreign influenceGuest: Sergei MelkonianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 508 | Recorded: January 19, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/508VIDEO: https://youtu.be/LDI5e7Tcu8k#ArmenianNews #Syria #Iran #ZangezurCorridor #TRIPP #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - January 17, 2026Topics:Return of Four HostagesPashinyan vs. ChurchTRIPPArmenia Parliamentary ElectionGuestAnna GrigoryanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 507 | Recorded: January 16, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/507VIDEO: https://youtu.be/b-qrlL7z6UY #AnnaGrigoryan #Armenia #ArmenianPolitics #TRIPP #ArmenianChurch #POWsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - January 16, 2026TopicsUnrest in IranRussia-Iran PartnershipSolovyov's StatementsTrump's “TRIPP Wire” in the CaucasusRelease of Armenian hostagesGuestPietro ShakarianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 506 | Recorded: January 14, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/506VIDEO: https://youtu.be/P5u4ppL9qK8#IranIsraelWar #IsraelIranConflict #Iran #Israel #IsraelConflict #Armenia #USForeignPolicy #Geopolitics #MiddleEastCrisisSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - January 11, 2026TopicsUkraine war's global cost to RussiaIran unrest and war riskRemembering the Baku pogromsRussia-Armenia tensions and media threatsPashinyan's clash with Armenian ChurchGuestArthur MartirosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 505 | Recorded: January 13, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/505Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - January 13, 2026Topics:The Legal Architecture: Autonomy, Exclusive Mission, and State NeutralityEngineering Parallel, Schismatic StructuresCriminal Law as LeverageBern in Action and ReactionThe Deeper Stakes: National IdentityGuest: Kevork HagopjianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 504 | Recorded: January 12, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/504VIDEO: https://youtu.be/TD1HLVnKyqc#Armenia #ArmenianChurch #Etchmiadzin #HumanRights #ReligiousFreedomSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - Jan 11, 2026Topics:Pashinyan Attacks: Geopolitics or Vendetta?Renegade Bishops: Demands and NarrativesStolen Church PropertyFrom Christmas to EasterGuest: Fr. Serop AzarianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 503 | Recorded: January 9, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/503VIDEO: https://youtu.be/TVEvBdX_Qr4#ArmenianApostolicChurch #ArmenianChurch #Garegin #Catholicos #NikolPashinyan #ArmenianDiasporaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - January 9, 2026TopicsVenezuelaUkraine WarRussia-Iran RelationsTRIPP and Russian-Armenian RelationsGuestFyodor Lukyanov (Фёдор Алекса́ндрович Лукья́нов)HostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 502 | Recorded: January 8, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/502VIDEO: https://youtu.be/d1XxQHSZUEE#FyodorLukyanov #RussiaGeopolitics #UkraineWar #IranIsrael #VenezuelaCrisis #TRIPPSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - January 4, 2026Topics:Developments in VenezuelaAttacks on Armenian Church ContinueNew MPG Poll ResultsArmenian Economy in 2025 (Jan-Oct)Guest: Hrant MikaelianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 501 | Recorded: January 6, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/501VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ACfF9ryiswESubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - Dec 28, 2025In this milestone 500th episode of *Groong Week in Review*, we assess how major external crises are shaping Armenia's strategic environment in 2025, examine the stalled Armenia–Azerbaijan process, analyze Russia's posture around TRIPP, and discuss the implications of a change in the U.S. ambassador. The episode concludes with an extended year-end review, where each participant evaluates their 2025 predictions from a year ago (in Episode 403), and presents high-, medium-, and low-probability forecasts for 2026.TopicsForeign Crises Affecting ArmeniaArmenia-Azerbaijan SagaRussia and TRIPPChange of US AmbassadorYear-End Review & OutlookGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 500 | Recorded: January 31, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/500Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
The Critical Corner - Recorded on: December 27, 2025In this episode, guest host Bedros Afeyan speaks with documentary filmmaker Diana Mkrtchyan about her feature documentary *Ojakh: On the Other Side of Silence*. The conversation traces the film's nine-year development, its origins in Turkish photographer Erhan Arik's *Horovel* project, and the urgent effort to document the last living Armenian Genocide survivors in border villages. The discussion also addresses artistic responsibility, dignity in testimony, cultural memory, censorship, and the continuity between Genocide-era trauma and the recent destruction of Artsakh.TopicsDiana Mkrtchyan's personal and artistic journeyThe origins of *Ojakh* in Erhan Arik's photographic workFilming the final testimonies of Armenian Genocide survivorsEthical and technical challenges of documenting traumaThe erasure of *Ojakh* from official cultural promotion in ArmeniaCinema as historical record and moral witnessMkrtchyan's Artsakh footage during the blockadeGuestDiana MkrtchyanGuest HostsBedros AfeyanEpisode 499 | Recorded: December 27, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/499Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - December 21, 2025Topics:Ukraine War and EU RiftSiege on Etchmiadzin and the ChurchPeace Dividend or Political TheaterTRIPP and Competing Power ClaimsGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 498 | Recorded: December 23, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/498VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Ui21tqO_d2U#ArmenianChurch #Etchmiadzin #TRIPP #ArmeniaPolitics #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Spotlight on Silence - December 18, 2025This episode examines a growing pattern of political pressure in Armenia, where journalists, lawyers, activists, and clergy are targeted through criminal prosecutions, selective justice, and coordinated propaganda. Drawing on recent cases and legal analysis, the discussion focuses on how laws such as Article 236 are used to constrain speech, protest, and independent institutions.Topics:Criminalization of Speech and Dissent in ArmeniaLegal Pressure on Lawyers, Journalists, and ClergySelective Justice and Coordinated PropagandaArticle 236 and the Policing of ProtestArmenian Center for Political Rights (ACPR) Reports:2025-10-17 Statement on case of Aleksander Kochubaev: https://bit.ly/4j7thWK 2025-10-27 Statement on case of Ruben Mkhitaryan: https://bit.ly/4aopzFR 2025-11-14 Statement on case of Antifake: http://bit.ly/48YZOtr2025-12-06 Injustice in Armenia - Part I: https://bit.ly/4qAzhtNGuest: Rafael IshkhanyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 497 | Recorded: December 13, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/497VIDEO: https://youtu.be/-aRS_GqoCjE#SpotlightOnSilence #ArmeniaJustice #PoliticalPrisoners #FreedomOfSpeech #RuleOfLaw #HumanRights #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - December 14, 2025Topics: - Armenia between EU and Russia - Church–state confrontation in Armenia - Artsakh concessions and return debate - Economy, debt, and governance - NSS raids Artsakh officesGuest: Arthur Khachatryan, MPHosts: - Hovik Manucharyan - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 496 | Recorded: December 15, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/496#ArmeniaPolitics #EUvsRussia #ArmenianChurch #Artsakh #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - December 14, 2025In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we examine how Venezuela's vast oil reserves have become entangled in global conflict. The discussion links US pressure on Caracas to efforts to drive down oil prices, weaken Russia's war effort in Ukraine, and limit Iran's regional power amid rising fears of a wider war. We also explore how a revived Venezuelan oil sector could disrupt OPEC+, reshape Middle East politics, and alter the balance of power across today's conflict zones.Topics:Venezuela's oil and US pressureTrump, oil prices, and OPEC+Middle East fallout from cheap oilUkraine war and Iran conflict stakesGuest: Harry IstepanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 495 | Recorded: December 11, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/495VIDEO: https://youtu.be/g0bH2EFA3GU#Venezuela #OilPolitics #Geopolitics #USForeignPolicy #EnergyWarsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - December 7, 2025Topics1988 Earthquake RememberedPashinyan's War on the Armenian ChurchEU-Armenia RelationsNagorno-Karabakh Negotiation DocumentsARAR Foundation PollGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 494 | Recorded: December 8, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/494Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - November 30, 2025TopicsOSCE MG DissolvedLibaridian on Submitting to Turkey and AzerbaijanNew Constitution to be Drafted by March 2026Archbishops, Letters, Attacks on the ChurchBorder Commissions Meet in BakuComments from Jacob PursleyGuestArthur KhachikyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 493 | Recorded: December 2, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/493Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - December 1, 2025Topics:US and VenezuelaPotential for New War on IranIs Azerbaijan a “Middle Power”?Europe's Confused Geopolitical IdentityArmenia's Confused GeopoliticsGuest: Eldar MamedovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 492 | Recorded: November 29, 2025VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SjcJMIis7sgSHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/492#IranCrisis #AzerbaijanPolitics #EuropeanGeopolitics #ArmeniaSecurity #SouthCaucasus #GlobalPowerPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - November 30, 2025Topics: Venezuela Ukraine War Gaza TRIPP in ArmeniaGuest: Matthew HohHosts: Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 491 | Recorded: November 29, 2025Show Notes: https://podcasts.groong.org/491Video: https://youtu.be/ZZ_n9Mwum30#Venezuela #AmericaFirst #USForeignPolicy #TRIPP #UkraineWarSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - November 27, 2025Topics: Clergy Arrests in Armenia Church Under Pressure Prayer Breakfast Controversy Western Silence on Repression CSI's Findings in YerevanGuest: Joel VeldkampHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 490 | Recorded: November 25, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/490VIDEO: https://youtu.be/BGnt2feIXMs#ArmenianChurch #ReligiousFreedom #ClergyArrests #ChristianSolidarityInternational #HumanRightsInArmeniaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - November 26, 2025Topics:Azerbaijan's war crimes and impunitySham trials of Artsakh leadersSilence of the OSCE and the WestArmenia's growing political repressionAttacks on the Armenian ChurchGuest: Garen JinbachianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 489 | Recorded: November 23, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/489VIDEO: https://youtu.be/uwn6cFzDpAo#ArtsakhJustice #HumanRights #OSCE #Armenia #Azerbaijan #PoliticalPrisonersSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - November 23, 2025Topics:High-Stakes Ukraine TalksArmenia's Growing Political DetentionsPashinyan Honored In KazakhstanRising Pressure On The ChurchImpeachment vs. ElectionsPashinyan Seizes Power GridGuest: Hrant MikaelianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 488 | Recorded: November 24, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/488VIDEO: https://youtu.be/YA7EDq_Ve3I#ArmeniaPolitics #SouthCaucasus #HumanRights #FreeSpeech #RussiaUkraine #GroongPodcastSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Freedom of Speech at Risk in Armenia, Vagharshapat, RPA Strategy | Ep 487, Nov 19, 2025Conversations on Groong - Recorded on: November 18, 2025TopicsFreedom of Expression at Risk in ArmeniaVagharshapat Municipal OutcomesRepublican Party Election StrategyStand in Support of Independent Media and Journalism in ArmeniaGuestHayk MamijanyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 487 | Recorded: November 18, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/487Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - November 16, 2025Topics:Ukraine and Iran-Israel ConflictsC5+1 in Washington DCVagharshapat/Etchmiadzin MunicipalGuest: Sergei MelkonianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 486 | Recorded: November 17, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/486VIDEO: https://youtu.be/53k2AVy6gAA#ArmeniaPolitics #SouthCaucasus #UkraineWar #IranIsraelSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Imnemnimi Podcasters Arrested:Freedom of Expression at Risk in ArmeniaConversations on GroongTopicsArrest of Imnemnimi PodcastersWhat are the Government's Real Intentions?Silence of the WestCall to All Media: Cover Aggressions Against Freedom of Expression in Armenia!GuestArthur KhachikyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 485 | Recorded: November 14, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/485Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - November 9, 2025TopicsNov 9: 44-Day War 5 years HenceUkraine and Iran-Israel ConflictsPres. Serge Sargsyan's InterviewPres. Robert Kocharyan's InterviewNarek Karapetyan on Tucker CarlsonGuestArthur G MartirosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 484 | Recorded: November 10, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/484Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Groong Week in Review - November 2, 2025Topics:Ukraine war status and U.S.–Russia dynamicsChurch–state tensions and religious prosecutionsOpposition arrests, trials, and civil libertiesBorder demarcation, enclavesGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 483 | Recorded: November 3, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/483VIDEO: https://youtu.be/KqMS6eji7sc#UkraineWar #ArmeniaPolitics #ChurchPersecution #OppositionCrackdownSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Conversations on Groong - November 1, 2025Topics: Timing and intent for an Israel and Iran clash Unfinished business from the June war US role, limited support or full entry Iran's escalation ladder and Caucasus spillover scenariosGuest: Trita ParsiHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 482 | Recorded: October 30, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/482VIDEO: https://youtu.be/hn0UM3BPYOc#TritaParsi #IsraelIran #MiddleEast #USForeignPolicy #Iran #Israel #SouthCaucasus #Armenia #StraitOfHormuz #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
Euronest, Aliyev Transit Move, Gyumri Mayor Arrest, Pashinyan vs. ChurchGroong Week in Review - October 26, 2025TopicsEuronest session takeawaysAliyev's transit move and TRIPPGyumri mayor arrest falloutPashinyan's push to control the ChurchGuestArthur KhachatryanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 481 | Recorded: October 29, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/481Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong
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