Podcasts about nagorno karabakh

Conversations on Groong - September 25, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dziunik Aghajanian about shifting geopolitical pressures on Armenia following Russia's September 2026 parliamentary elections. We discuss Putin's strengthened domestic position, the Armenia-Russia confrontation over the 102nd base, asset confiscation and anti-corruption efforts targeting Russian interests, and how Middle East escalation and the Iran War reshape Armenia's strategic environment amid ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process tensions.Topics:Russian parliamentary election outcomeMiddle East escalation and the HouthisArmenia-Russia confrontation, including the 102nd baseAsset confiscation, anti-corruption, and Russian interestsAzerbaijan-Armenia "durable peace" tensionsArmenian opposition strategyGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 590 | Recorded: September 23, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/590VIDEO: https://youtu.be/H0_GV8ZQ7Jg#Armenia #Russia #SouthCaucasus #Azerbaijan #MiddleEast #UkraineWar #ArmenianPolitics #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - September 20, 2026In this week's Groong podcast episode, Hovik and Asbed reflect on Armenia's 35th independence anniversary amid ongoing regional tensions and unresolved conflicts. We discuss the state of Armenian statehood three years after the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh, Armenian prisoners of war still held in Baku, rising citizenship costs, government opacity over war casualties, and deepening Turkey-Azerbaijan strategic coordination.Topics:Armenia marks 35 years independentArtsakh remembered three years laterArmenian POWs remain in BakuUkraine strikes deep inside RussiaTurkey-Azerbaijan deepen strategic coordinationCitizenship costs rise sharplyGovernment opacity over war casualtiesHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 588 | Recorded: September 22, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/588VIDEO: https://youtu.be/dpoM-a445yg#Armenia #Artsakh #UkraineWar #ArmenianPOWs #Azerbaijan #Turkey #SouthCaucasus #ArmenianPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - September 23, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Arthur Khachatryan, MP from Armenia Alliance, about opposition strategy following the June 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election. We discuss the Established Opposition's plans to counter Pashinyan's agenda, territorial concessions including Tigranashen, Azerbaijani attacks on Armenian heritage, the role of TRIPP and Azerbaijan's control over transit corridors, the future of Russia's 102nd military base, and escalating threats against opposition parties.Topics:Reflections on Independence DayPost-election opposition strategyTigranashen and other territorial concessionsAzerbaijani attacks on Armenian heritageAzerbaijani control over TRIPP accessFuture of Russia's 102nd baseAsset confiscation and Russia tensionsAttacks and threats against the ARFGuest: Arthur KhachatryanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 589 | Recorded: September 22, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/589VIDEO: https://youtu.be/pp9bcKTcbPI#Armenia #ArthurKhachatryan #ArmeniaAlliance #TRIPP #Tigranashen #Artsakh #SouthCaucasus #ArmenianPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - September 17, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Hrant Mikaelian about chip diplomacy, the TRIPP framework, and Armenia's structural economic vulnerabilities. We discuss how the U.S. fast-tracked advanced AI exports to secure the Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process agreement, the massive energy demands of the planned Firebird data center, Armenia's deepening education crisis, and the risks of energy dependence as the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant approaches shutdown.Topics:AI chips tied to TRIPP diplomacyData centers raise major energy questionsArmenia faces severe education outcomesGovernment reforms versus poor student performanceAzerbaijan targets Armenian heritage in ArtsakhGas dependence exposes Armenia to shocksGuest: Hrant MikaelianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 586 | Recorded: September 16, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/586VIDEO: https://youtu.be/IUEgzBPJZ2E#Armenia #TRIPP #ArtificialIntelligence #EducationCrisis #Artsakh #EnergySecurity #SouthCaucasus #HrantMikaelianSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - September 13, 2026In this Groong Week in Review episode, Hovik and Asbed examine the fourth anniversary of the September 2022 border war, Azerbaijan's ongoing occupation of Armenian territory, and Pashinyan's political trajectory toward recognizing Artsakh's loss. We discuss Hajiyev's inflammatory rhetoric, Armenia's muted diplomatic response, TRIPP and semiconductor sovereignty, Pashinyan's attendance at a Paris space summit, Russian financial flows through Armenia, and Russia-Iran coordination in the South Caucasus.Topics:2022 border war and its legacyHajiyev spouts hate, EU reps giggleArmenia's muted response to AzerbaijanTRIPP, NVIDIA chips, and sovereigntyPashinyan's Paris space summit visitRussian money flows through ArmeniaRussia-Iran coordination in South CaucasusPolitical prosecutions and Grigoryan reshuffleHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 585 | Recorded: September 14, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/585VIDEO: https://youtu.be/cVhiM9I1pLQ#Armenia #Artsakh #Gandzasar #TRIPP #SouthCaucasus #Azerbaijan #Russia #IranSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - September 6, 2026In this week's Groong episode, Hovik and Asbed review September 2026 developments across Armenia and the South Caucasus. We examine Artsakh's remembered independence declaration on September 2, 1991, and its unresolved cause following the 2023 ethnic cleansing; Putin's signaling on Russia's military base presence; ongoing Armenian Church prosecutions; EU trade negotiations; mounting non-combat military deaths; and political pressures ahead of local elections. We also analyze U.S. envoy Witkoff and Kushner's diplomatic shuttle through Moscow and Kyiv.Topics:Artsakh remembered, its cause unresolvedPutin puts Russia's military base on the tableChurch prosecutions begin to unravelEU trade headlines look better than the dealArmy indiscipline fuels mounting non-combat deathsNew political pressures before local electionsHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 584 | Recorded: Sep 6, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/584VIDEO: https://youtu.be/2mSjTCZ2s6c#Artsakh #Armenia #NagornoKarabakh #SouthCaucasus #SCO #Russia #EuropeanUnion #ArmenianPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - September 5, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Suren Sargsyan about the Iran War and great power competition for Armenia's strategic position. We discuss Washington's unclear endgame in the conflict with Iran, the future of Russia's military presence in Armenia and CSTO membership, and competing U.S. and European interests in new east-west transit routes through Armenia and Central Asia amid broader geopolitical rivalries.Topics:U.S. objectives in the Iran warRussia's 102nd base in ArmeniaPashinyan's sovereignty policy contradictionsGreat-power rivalry across Central AsiaU.S. and EU interests in TRIPPArmenia's place in Eurasian competitionGuest: Suren SargsyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 583 | Recorded: Sep 4, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/583VIDEO: https://youtu.be/XMhQm0VCALA#Armenia #IranWar #TRIPP #CentralAsia #Russia #UnitedStates #Geopolitics #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - August 30, 2026In this week's Groong news roundup, Hovik and Asbed examine Armenia's position at the SCO Summit amid intensifying global conflicts. We discuss Russia's escalation in Ukraine, unprecedented Western diplomatic visits to Moscow, the renewed US-Iran War, and Pashinyan's meetings with regional and global leaders including Aliyev and Putin. We also address the ongoing persecution of former Artsakh leaders and the selective justice targeting Armenia's political landscape.Topics:Russia Escalates War Against UkraineUnprecedented Western Visits to MoscowUS-Iran War Flares AgainAll Artsakh Presidents Behind BarsArmenia at the SCO SummitPashinyan Meets Aliyev, Putin, ModiPolitical Persecutions and Selective JusticeHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 582 | Recorded: August 31, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/582VIDEO: https://youtu.be/PzoUvdhbgvQ#Armenia #Artsakh #UkraineWar #IranWar #SCO #Pashinyan #SouthCaucasus #ArmenianPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - August 29, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Arthur G. Martirosyan about Armenia's post-election political crisis and Pashinyan's governance agenda. We discuss the arrest of opposition leaders including Robert Kocharyan, attacks on the Armenian Church, border concessions including Tigranashen, the TRIPP corridor, and how the Established Opposition is strategizing under state repression in the Fourth Republic.Topics:Pashinyan's Revenge Against OppositionKocharyan Arrested, Family Under State PressureOpposition Strategy Under RepressionPashinyan's Five-Year Transformation AgendaGovernment Assault on Armenian ChurchTigranashen and Border ConcessionsTRIPP, Turan, and Central AsiaGuest: Arthur G. MartirosyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 581 | Recorded: August 28, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/581VIDEO: https://youtu.be/yi7zvxYDcOw#ArmenianElections #Armenia #NikolPashinyan #CivilContract #StrongArmenia #ArmenianOppositionSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - August 28, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Ambassador Jack Matlock, the last US Ambassador to the Soviet Union, about whether the West missed a historic opportunity to integrate Russia into Western security architecture after the Cold War. We discuss the internal collapse of the Soviet Union, Reagan-Gorbachev diplomacy, NATO expansion and Russian backlash, and how Cold War-era decisions shape Armenia's geopolitical choices today, including Matlock's firsthand observations of Soviet Armenia during glasnost and the Nagorno Karabakh movement.Topics:Recollections from Soviet South CaucasusWhy the Soviet Union collapsedHow the Cold War endedReagan and Gorbachev's diplomacyAmerica's post-Cold War triumphalismNATO expansion and Russian backlashGreat-power rivalry in the CaucasusArmenia's geopolitical choices todayGuest: Jack F. Matlock Jr.Hosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 580 | Recorded: Aug 27, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/580#JackMatlock #ColdWar #SovietUnion #Reagan #Gorbachev #NATO #Russia #SouthCaucasus #ArmeniaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - August 21, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dziunik Aghajanian about Armenia's precarious position between Iran, Russia, and emerging Middle East power shifts. We discuss the Mecca joint defense pact signed by Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, Iran's warnings over TRIPP, Ilham Aliyev's militarization plans in Nakhijevan, Armenia's growing energy dependence, Russian deadlines for Yerevan, and how the Established Opposition is testing its parliamentary strategy ahead of the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election.Topics:Significance of the Mecca joint defense pactIran warns Armenia over TRIPPAliyev advances plans through SyunikArmenia faces growing energy dependenceRussia sets deadlines for YerevanOpposition tests its parliamentary strategyGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 579 | Recorded: August 18, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/579VIDEO: https://youtu.be/IMBbyU0ffvk#Armenia #SouthCaucasus #Mecca #TRIPP #Iran #Russia #Azerbaijan #EAEU #CSTOSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - August 16, 2026In this episode of Groong Week in Review, Hovik and Asbed discuss Armenia's precarious position amid escalating Iran War risks, Russia's December ultimatum on the Eurasian Economic Union, and deepening security threats from TRIPP. We examine how a broader US-Iran conflict could devastate Armenia through refugee flows and logistics collapse, why Pashinyan's EAEU defiance has triggered Russian pressure, and what frozen CSTO membership actually means for Armenian security.Topics:US-Iran War Risks ReturnArmenia Faces Regional Spillover RisksRussia Pressures Armenia Over Western PivotTRIPP Deepens Security and Energy RisksDomestic Politics Grow More ConfrontationalArrests and Prosecutions Fuel Repression ClaimsHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 578 | Recorded: August 17, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/578VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Iu-zBumxcR4#Armenia #IranWar #TRIPP #Syunik #SouthCaucasus #RussiaArmenia #Nakhichevan #ArmenianPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Confira no Morning Show desta quinta-feira (20): O Ministério Público Eleitoral (MPE) pediu que o Tribunal Superior Eleitoral (TSE) rejeite o registro de candidatura de Pablo Marçal (PRTB) à Presidência da República e conceda uma decisão provisória que o impeça de realizar campanha eleitoral. Neste sábado (15), o PRTB protocolou o pedido de registro da candidatura do empresário e influenciador à Presidência, após uma decisão da Justiça Eleitoral autorizar sua filiação ao partido. O registro ainda precisa ser analisado e aprovado pela Justiça Eleitoral. Republicanos expulsa prefeito de Sorocaba, Rodrigo Manga, por pedir votos para sua esposa, Sirlange Rodrigues, candidata à deputada federal pelo União Brasil. A justificativa da legenda para o corte do “prefeito tiktoker” do quadro de filiados foi de “infidelidade partidária”. O presidente Lula (PT) se reuniu na noite desta quarta-feira (19), no Palácio da Alvorada, com o advogado que defende seu filho, o empresário Fábio Luís Lula da Silva, o Lulinha. Marco Aurélio Carvalho, um dos fundadores do grupo Prerrogativas, também foi escolhido para coordenar, em São Paulo, a campanha do presidente Lula, que disputará a reeleição em outubro. Marco Aurélio chegou ao Alvorada por volta das 19h15, e o encontro também contou com a presença do candidato ao governo de São Paulo, Fernando Haddad. A reunião ocorreu em meio a revelações de que a Polícia Federal investiga se Lulinha cometeu os crimes de tráfico de influência e corrupção em três inquéritos diferentes. O Tribunal Regional Eleitoral de Minas Gerais determinou que a atual prefeita do município de Francisco Sá deixe o cargo. A decisão se baseia no fato de que a prefeita Alini Bicalho (PT) é ex-mulher de seu antecessor, o ex-prefeito Mário Osvaldo (Avante), que se separou de Alini e assumiu um relacionamento com uma de suas secretarias, Késsia Ribeiro (Avante). Késsia enfrentou Alini na eleição de 2024, perdendo para a ex-primeira dama. A lei eleitoral impede que (ex) cônjuges de chefes do executivo concorram ao mesmo cargo. Imagens captadas pela Polícia Civil do Rio de Janeiro no Complexo da Penha (CV) mostram criminosos promovendo capacitação para que membros da facção pilotem drones em combate contra seus inimigos. O uso da tecnologia já vem sendo empregado no mundo do crime na cidade desde 2017, antes do primeiro uso oficial da ferramenta em combate militar, na Guerra de Nagorno-Karabakh em 2020. A delegada Ivalda Aleixo, diretora do Departamento de Homicídios e de Proteção à Pessoa (DHPP) da Polícia Civil do Estado de São Paulo, conta que já utilizou uma fantasia de Rita Lee durante o carnaval para pegar assaltantes de celular no meio da multidão. A delegada ainda comenta casos polêmicos como o de Paulo Cupertino. Ivalda Aleixo, diretora do Departamento de Homicídios e de Proteção à Pessoa (DHPP) da Polícia Civil de SP fala sobre impunidade, redução da maioridade penal e caso de piloto que abusava de crianças. A delegada também comenta sobre as ocorrências de um empresário encontrado em um buraco, da mulher adulta que fingia ser criança autista para se aproveitar dos outros, sobre vazamento de dados, golpes digitais, processo contra a Meta e crimes no Discord. Uma mulher e duas crianças que caminhavam por uma calçada escaparam de serem atingidas por um carro descontrolado em Poços de Caldas em Minas Gerais. Imagens de uma câmera local mostram o momento impressionante. Ninguém se feriu. Essas e outras notícias você confere no Morning Show.

Week in Review - August 9, 2026In this week's Groong episode, the hosts examine Pashinyan's confrontation with the Armenian Church, Armenia's strategic positioning between Russia and the EU, and the geopolitical implications of TRIPP. We discuss the trial of Catholicos Garegin II, Iran's military leadership realignment, the Turkey-Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defense pact, and how these shifts reshape Armenia's role in the South Caucasus.Topics:Turkey-Pakistan-Saudi AllianceIran War UpdateCatholicos on TrialEAEU Meeting in Cholpon-AtaCorruption & PersecutionsHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 576 | Recorded: August 10, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/576VIDEO: https://youtu.be/F5o0rNBgbJU#Armenia #ArmenianPolitics #ArmenianChurch #GareginII #TRIPP #ArmeniaRussia #SouthCaucasus #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - August 8, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Hrant Mikaelian about Armenia's Western pivot and the opening of the new parliament. We discuss Ruben Rubinyan's appointment as speaker, Armenia-Russia-EAEU relations, lessons from the 44-Day War, European aid for Armenia, the role of the Armenian Church in national identity, and Armenia's economic direction amid geopolitical pressure.Topics:New Armenian ParliamentArmenia-Russia-EAEU RelationsEUropean Aid for ArmeniaChurch & National IdentityArmenian EconomyGuest: Hrant MikaelianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 575 | Recorded: August 4, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/575VIDEO: https://youtu.be/RqKRA70wRLc#Armenia #Russia #EuropeanUnion #ArmenianPolitics #ArmeniaRussia #ArmenianChurch #SouthCaucasus #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - August 2, 2026In this week's Groong Week in Review, Hovik and Asbed discuss Armenia's new parliament sworn in on August 2, 2026, and the Armenia Alliance's direct challenge to Civil Contract over Tigranashen. We examine the government's evasive responses on territorial red lines, Armenia's challenge to Russia's railway concession, and how TRIPP reshapes regional power dynamics in the South Caucasus.Topics:New parliament is sworn inTigranashen and Armenia's territorial red linesCivil Contract's evasive enclave answersArmenia challenges Russia's railway concessionTRIPP reshapes regional power and transitHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 574 | Recorded: August 3, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/574VIDEO: https://youtu.be/dSzzQC3-ECA#ArmenianNews #Tigranashen #ArmenianRailways #TRIPP #SouthCaucasus #ArmeniaRussia #ZangezurCorridor #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - August 3, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dr. Pietro Shakarian about memory, repression, and state power in Armenia across Soviet and contemporary periods. We discuss the Great Purge in Soviet Armenia, the assassination of Aghasi Khanjyan, the suppression of Armenian national institutions under Stalin and Beria, and the parallels between Stalinist erasure and current efforts to control public memory, symbols, and mourning in post-Artsakh Armenia under the Civil Contract regime.Topics:Erasing memory across YerevanGreat Purge in Soviet ArmeniaKhanjyan's assassination and BeriaRepression of Armenia's national institutionsRemembering Stalinist repressionHistorical parallels with modern ArmeniaAttacks on memory and ChurchOpposition strategy after the electionGuest: Pietro ShakarianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 573 | Recorded: July 31, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/573VIDEO: https://youtu.be/njuZiy8goyU#Armenia #GreatPurge #AghasiKhanjyan #PietroShakarian #Artsakh #ArmenianChurch #PoliticalRepression #MemoryUnderSiege #Authoritarianism #SovietArmeniaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Top headlines for Monday, August 3, 2026Marriott faces backlash over genocide tourism packages through Nagorno-Karabakh. A Mississippi pastor who preached the Bible in 96 straight hours hears from a witch who cursed him, and converted. Texas orders the university that gave Chris Brown a doctorate to stop granting degrees. Plus, fire strikes a Knoxville megachurch.0:11 Marriott Bonvoy accused of 'genocide tourism'1:02 Pastor who preached Bible for 96 hours says witch cursed him1:45 Ryan Bomberger bashes 'absurd' court ruling against school worker2:40 Ancient biblical-era Cyprus coin found on Israeli beach3:28 Texas agency orders HCU to stop offering degrees4:13 Mexican megachurch building $1.13M 'clergy home'5:07 Church that gave free gas to hundreds of commuters suffers fireSubscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle PodcastsOvercastFollow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on TwitterChristian Post on Facebook@ChristianPostIntl on InstagramSubscribe on YouTubeGet the Edifi AppDownload for iPhoneDownload for AndroidSubscribe to Our NewsletterSubscribe to the Freedom Post, delivered every Monday and ThursdayClick here to get the top headlines delivered to your inbox every morning!Links to the NewsMarriott Bonvoy accused of ‘genocide tourism' | BusinessPastor who preached Bible for 96 hours says witch cursed him | Church & MinistriesRyan Bomberger bashes ‘absurd' court ruling against school worker | EducationAncient biblical-era Cyprus coin found on Israeli beach | WorldTexas agency orders HCU to stop offering degrees | EducationMexican megachurch building $1.13M ‘clergy home' | Church & MinistriesChurch that gave free gas to hundreds of commuters suffers fire | U.S.

Conversations on GroongIn this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Christine Arakelian about American foreign policy fractures, Iran war risks, and Armenia's pivot to the West. We discuss whether the United States has coherent foreign policy, the collapse of the MAGA coalition over Forever Wars, NATO 3.0 and Europe's militarization, and how Pashinyan's post-2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election government is navigating TRIPP amid global instability.Topics:US Foreign Policy & the Fracture of MAGAIran and the Risk of Forever WarsNATO 3.0 and Europe's MilitarizationPost-2026 Election ArmeniaTRIPP and Pashinyan's Pivot to the WestGuest: Christine A. ArakelianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 572 | Recorded: July 29, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/572VIDEO: https://youtu.be/aFGknXV57a4#Russia #IranWar #UkraineWar #SouthCaucasus #Armenia #TRIPP #Geopolitics #EurasiaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - July 26, 2026In this week's edition of the Armenian News podcast, Hovik and Asbed analyze escalating regional tensions as Ukraine expands operations into the Caspian Sea, striking Iranian and Russian assets. We examine how this merger of the Northern and Southern conflicts affects Armenia, Kazakhstan's energy security, and Pashinyan's diplomatic positioning amid new pressure from Western capitals following Aliyev's recent visits to Germany and Berlin.Topics:Ukraine expands its war into the CaspianIran warns of a wider regional responseRussia and the West test stalled diplomacyAliyev positions Baku as a geopolitical hubArmenia faces pressure over EU alignmentBaku POW abuse and their deteriorating healthHousing policy expose domestic failuresHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 571 | Recorded: July 27, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/571VIDEO: https://youtu.be/boe2261X_bM#Armenia #UkraineWar #Iran #CaspianSea #SouthCaucasus #MiddleCorridor #ArmenianPOWs #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - July 27, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dr. Archil Sikharulidze about Russia's shifting strategy in the South Caucasus and Armenia and Georgia's diverging paths. We discuss Moscow's assessment of Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process developments, Georgia's widening dispute with Europe, Armenia's shift away from Russia, and how regional transit corridors reshape geopolitical competition between Moscow, Brussels, and Washington.Topics:Russia's changing South Caucasus strategyGeorgia's widening dispute with EuropeArmenia's shift away from RussiaGeorgia's role in regional transitArmenia-Georgia ties under pressureGuest: Archil SikharulidzeHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 570 | Recorded: July 24, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/570VIDEO: https://youtu.be/_Cr0HFioCfA#Armenia #Georgia #Russia #EuropeanUnion #SouthCaucasus #GeorgianDream #NikolPashinyan #MiddleCorridorSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - July 25, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Anthony Barsamian about Armenian Diaspora advocacy, Armenia-Diaspora relations, and the next phase of Armenian-American activism. We discuss decades of work securing U.S.-Armenia relations and aid packages, the achievement of U.S. Armenian Genocide recognition and what comes next, and the role of the Armenian Republic in promoting international genocide recognition-including recent developments with Israeli recognition efforts.Topics:Armenian-American advocacy and its next phaseGenocide recognition, justice, and reparationsChurch-state conflict and national unityGuest: Anthony J. BarsamianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 569 | Recorded: July 21, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/569VIDEO: https://youtu.be/DZe1ltgELys#ArmenianDiaspora #AnthonyBarsamian #ArmenianGenocide #ArmenianChurch #ArmeniaDiaspora #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - July 19, 2026In this week's Groong Week in Review, Hovik and Asbed break down escalating tensions across the Middle East as the US-Iran war intensifies following the collapse of the June ceasefire. We examine the strategic implications for Armenia and the South Caucasus, the role of TRIPP advocates like Konstantin Sokolov, and how regional instability intersects with Pashinyan's political vulnerabilities at home, including charges against Archbishop Galstanyan and ongoing Armenian POW cases.Topics:US-Iran War ContinuesSummer Lull in Yerevan PoliticsKonstantin Sokolov: Master of TRIPP & TeghutUN: Abp. Galstanyan Charges UnjustifiedArmenian POW Slams Pashinyan from BakuHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 568 | Recorded: July 20, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/568VIDEO: https://youtu.be/zx2g2_dWLGc#IranWar #TRIPP #Teghut #Armenia #PoliticalPrisoners #ArmenianPOWs #KonstantinSokolovSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - July 12, 2026In this Groong Week in Review episode, Hovik and Asbed cover the 36th NATO summit in Ankara, escalating Iran war developments, and Armenia's removal of murals honoring fallen soldiers. We discuss NATO's defense spending surge, Trump's shift on Turkey and F-35 access, Ukraine aid commitments, and what these geopolitical shifts mean for Armenia and the South Caucasus amid ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan peace negotiations.Topics:NATO summit in AnkaraIran War UpdateTaking Scissors to ArmeniaShaping the ParliamentOSCE vs. Garegin IIHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 567 | Recorded: July 13, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/567#ArmenianNews #NATOSummit #IranWar #TRIPP #ArmeniaAzerbaijan #ArmenianParliament #GareginII #OSCESubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - July 11, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dr. Dmitry Suslov about Russia's strategic position across multiple fronts: the Ukraine War, Armenia's post-election Western pivot, TRIPP and Syunik, and Europe's rearmament against Russia. We discuss the long-term confrontation between Russia and NATO, Pashinyan's Western alignment after the June 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election, and how transport corridors in the South Caucasus may reshape regional containment lines.Topics:Ukraine's long war and endgameNovorossiya and a landlocked Ukraine?Europe rearms against RussiaNATO 3.0 and containmentArmenia's post-election Western pivotEU promises versus EAEU dependenceTRIPP, Syunik, and Russian red linesGuest: Dmitry SuslovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 566 | Recorded: July 9, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/566VIDEO: https://youtu.be/NFS46vZ039Q#Russia #UkraineWar #NATO #Europe #Armenia #SouthCaucasus #TRIPP #Syunik #EAEUSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Hello! Welcome to another episode of LEGACIES. My name is Justina Poskeviciute, Advocacy Ambassador at Legacies of War. Today we have the sincere pleasure of welcoming our friend, Luca Steinmann.Luca Steinmann is an Italian-Swiss journalist, war reporter, geopolitical analyst, and author. Luca has reported extensively from crises, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Syria, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Nagorno-Karabakh, and other conflict regions, where he has been speaking directly with civilians, fighters, and local actors.He writes in both German and Italian and has contributed to major international news outlets and publications, and gained particular attention during the Russia-Ukraine war beginning in early 2022. On February 18, 2022, he entered the Donbass region just before borders were closed and remained among the few Western journalists able to report from within areas controlled by Russian and pro-Russian forces for months. His first-hand accounts explored life on the ground amid military operations and civilian suffering, providing insights that went beyond typical Western media narratives.https://www.legaciesofwar.org/

Conversations on Groong - July 10, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dr. Sergey Markedonov about Russia's strategic position amid the Ukraine War and its implications for Armenia. We discuss why Moscow remains bogged down in Ukraine despite its military superiority, how the war of attrition shapes Russian bandwidth for the South Caucasus, the geopolitical role of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, and Pashinyan's Western pivot following the June 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election.Topics:Ukraine's war of attritionRussia's strategic bandwidth problemTRIPP and Iran's red linesIsrael's Armenian Genocide moveArmenia's Western pivot after electionsGuest: Sergey MarkedonovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 565 | Recorded: July 8, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/565VIDEO: https://youtu.be/YqsHd8TSyHQ#ArmenianNews #SouthCaucasus #UkraineWar #Russia #Armenia #EAEU #TRIPP #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - July 5, 2026In this episode of Groong Week in Review for July 5, 2026, Hovik and Asbed analyze Armenia's Constitutional Court ruling upholding the disputed 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election results. We examine the disqualification of Prosperous Armenia votes, Civil Contract's three-fifths majority, the opposition's parliamentary leverage, and what these outcomes mean for Armenian sovereignty amid ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process negotiations and regional pressures.Topics:Court rubber stamps stolen electionsVon der Leyen in the South CaucasusEU connectivity push in CaucasusRubinyan vs. SimonyanPost-election opposition raids beginIMEI or IMEI notHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 564 | Recorded: July 6, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/564VIDEO: https://youtu.be/oSgxiwpIwWw#Armenia #ArmenianNews #Pashinyan #ArmenianPolitics #SouthCaucasus #ConstitutionalCourt #SurveillanceStateSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - July 3, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Amb. Dziunik Aghajanian about the Iran-Israel conflict, Armenia's 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election aftermath, and Israeli recognition of the Armenian Genocide. We discuss whether the US-Iran MOU represents genuine de-escalation or a tactical pause before renewed confrontation, the Constitutional Court's review of election fraud allegations against the Civil Contract regime, and Russia's warnings to Armenia amid regional instability.Topics:US-Iran MoUElection AftermathRussian Warnings to ArmeniaIsraeli Recognizes the Armenian GenocideGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 563 | Recorded: July 1, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/563VIDEO: https://youtu.be/vgl4sRDGiTY#ArmenianNews #IranWar #DziunikAghajanian #ArmenianElections #RussiaArmenia #SouthCaucasus #ArmenianGenocideSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - June 28, 2026In this week's Groong Week in Review, Hovik and Asbed discuss Israel's historic recognition of the Armenian Genocide, Russia's ongoing warnings toward Armenia, and the political uncertainty following the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election. We examine the geopolitical context behind Israel's decision, Pashinyan's measured response, and what these developments signal about Armenia's regional position amid shifting US-Turkey relations and broader Middle East tensions.Topics:Israel Recognizes the Armenian GenocideRussian Warnings ContinuePost Election LimboHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 562 | Recorded: June 29, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/562VIDEO: https://youtu.be/35N6GqdKnLk#ArmenianGenocide #Armenia #Israel #Pashinyan #RussiaArmenia #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - June 21, 2026In this Groong Week in Review episode, Hovik and Asbed examine the fallout from Armenia's 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Elections, the ongoing US-Iran War ceasefire negotiations and their regional implications, and escalating political persecutions following the vote. We discuss how six opposition parties-including Strong Armenia, Armenia Alliance, Prosperous Armenia, and others-have challenged the election results at the Constitutional Court, Russia's continued criticism of Pashinyan's government amid an economic embargo, and Armenia-Azerbaijan telecommunications developments amid broader geopolitical uncertainty in the South Caucasus.Topics:US-Iran NegotiationsRussian EmbargoElection AftermathPersecutions ContinueArmenia-Azerbaijan Telco AgreementHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 561 | Recorded: June 22, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/561VIDEO: https://youtu.be/UYNTds7GVGE#ArmenianNews #Armenia #Iran #USIranTalks #ArmenianElections #SouthCaucasus #NikolPashinyan #TRIPPSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - June 23, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dr. Arman Grigoryan about US-Iran negotiations and Armenia's contested post-election landscape. We discuss the prospects for a US-Iran agreement, its implications for TRIPP and Iran-Russia relations, the aftermath of the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election, and how shifting great-power dynamics reshape the South Caucasus.Topics:US-Iran negotiations and regional risksTRIPP and shifting regional powerArmenia's contested post-election landscapeOpposition failures and future strategyRisks of another parliamentary electionGuest: Arman GrigoryanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 560 | Recorded: June 22, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/560VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SU6w4phqqGk#ArmeniaElections #USIranNegotiations #SouthCaucasus #TRIPP #Iran #ArmanGrigoryanSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - June 14, 2026In this episode of Groong Week in Review for June 14, 2026, we analyze the aftermath of Armenia's 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election, shifting Armenia-Georgia relations, and a landmark interim US-Iran agreement that reshapes regional stability. We discuss the ceasefire framework, sanctions relief, and how the Iran war's resolution affects Armenian security, energy markets, and the broader South Caucasus landscape.Topics:Armenian Election AftermathArmenia-Georgia RelationsUS-Iran Interim AgreementHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 558 | Recorded: June 15, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/558VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ioSlOhVsLFo#Armenia #ArmenianNews #ArmenianElections #CivilContract #Pashinyan #ArmenianConstitution #Referendum #ProsperousArmenia #SouthCaucasus #CECSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Nikol Pashinyan's sweeping re-election in Armenia has raised fresh hopes that the border with Turkey could finally reopen after three decades of closure. The Armenian prime minister campaigned on restoring ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan, as well as moving Armenia closer to Europe – but constitutional reform remains a major obstacle. The vote on 7 June gave Nikol Pashinyan a clear victory over the opposition. But his success could prove bittersweet after he fell short of the parliamentary majority needed to change the constitution. Changing the constitution is part of Pashinyan's peace efforts with Azerbaijan, brokered last year by United States President Donald Trump. “This government is committed to passing what the Armenian opposition would refer to as 'the Aliyev referendum',” said Eric Hacopian, a Yerevan-based political consultant. “The problem is, now they have no votes to bring it up because you need to get a two-thirds vote to change the constitution.” Armenia PM Pashinyan wins vote, cementing pro-Western shift Constitutional hurdles On the back of the Washington peace talks, “Armenia and Azerbaijan had an understanding that, after the election in Armenia, there would be certain constitutional amendments”, explained Hikmet Hajiyev, chief foreign policy adviser to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Baku insists Armenia must remove claims to Nagorno-Karabakh from the preamble to its constitution. The two countries have clashed repeatedly over the contested territory. In 2023, Azerbaijan retook the breakaway enclave, causing more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to flee. “We are looking forward to Armenia completely eliminating elements of its territorial claims,” Hajiyev said. “Then we will not have any stumbling blocks or hurdles on our agenda to move forward.” Constitutional reform is also seen as important for normalising Armenia's ties with Turkey, according to Hajiyev. “It's not directly linked, but indirectly,” he said. “Once the Azerbaijan-Armenia agenda is solved, then Turkey will also act in a synchronised manner, opening the borders and also establishing a closer relationship.” Armenia election: what the vote could mean for Russia, the West and Azerbaijan Border hopes Turkey closed its border with Armenia in 1993, siding with Azerbaijan after ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh declared independence and seized Azerbaijani lands. Efforts to restore ties are now gathering pace, said Zeynep Alemdar, an international relations professor at Dogus University in Istanbul. “They've already declared in May 2026 that the border is going to be opened up, and all the bureaucratic, paperwork-type obstacles are actually being dismantled,” Alemdar said, noting that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is believed to get on well with Pashinyan. Pashinyan's Turkey visit signals new chapter as Ankara eyes Caucasus shift But energy-rich Azerbaijan remains crucial to Ankara, Alemdar said. “Economically, comparing Azerbaijan versus Armenia for Ankara, of course Azerbaijan always wins... Of course Azerbaijan is going to be more influential,” Alemdar said. Erdogan congratulated Pashinyan on his re-election, while the Turkish foreign ministry urged Yerevan in a statement to embrace “bold reforms” – seen by many as a call for constitutional change. Cautious steps Pashinyan's lack of decisive parliamentary support and uncertainty over a possible referendum mean Ankara's role could be important in securing lasting peace, said Richard Giragosian, director of the Regional Studies Center think tank in Yerevan. “For Turkey this is a slow, gradual process of retaking the initiative with Armenia, away from Azerbaijan,” Giragosian said. “Because in many ways, at every round it's been the Azerbaijan factor that's the key determinant. And according to sources in Ankara, they only have a yellow light of caution from Azerbaijan – it's not a red light, but it's not yet a green light to proceed.” Reopening the Turkish-Armenian border would be welcomed by the European Union and Washington, as Ankara seeks to deepen its ties with both. But with Azerbaijan acting as a major investor and economic lifeline, Turkey is moving cautiously to avoid upsetting its powerful neighbour.

Conversations on Groong - June 10, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Arthur G. Martirosyan about Armenia's contested 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election and Pashinyan's path to a third term. We discuss whether the vote was free and fair, how state pressure and Western backing shaped the outcome, the razor-thin thresholds that determine parliamentary representation, Pashinyan's post-election crackdown against the Established Opposition, and what a Civil Contract supermajority would mean for Armenia's governance and the Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Process.Topics:Contested results and thresholdsPashinyan's post-election crackdownWestern backing and interferenceRussia's delayed pressure campaignOpposition choices after the voteGuest: Arthur G. MartirosyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 557 | Recorded: June 9, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/557#ArmenianElections #Armenia #NikolPashinyan #CivilContract #StrongArmenia #ArmenianOppositionSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

It's war in our time. After flirting with peace for a few miserable hours, the US and Iran are back to what they know best: taking uneven chunks out of each other amidst the world's prime oil pathway. This week, Iran levelled a terminal of Kuwait's airport, and attacked the Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. Then there was that mysterious Apache helicopter crash off Hormuz. Now, after the crisp kinetic strikes of the first few weeks – then the tentative tests of strength – the war is entering a new phase.One in which Iran shows that the US will not be able to achieve on the negotiating table what it did not achieve on the battlefield. Meanwhile, it's a thriving Asian tiger, the skyscraper skyline of its capital shows the bustle and optimism of the Rising East. Mobile phones. Electric cars. That's right — North Korea is this year's big economic success story, according to a new piece in the Wall Street Journal. Turns out the Hermit Kingdom is less hermetic these days. North Koreans have made good money providing weapons to Russia in Ukraine, and China has turned on the trade taps. Pyongyang no longer rations electricity to a few hours every day. So what happens when North Korea is no longer a Potemkin village but a Potemkin megalopolis? Meanwhile, lose a war, get voted back in. Three years after the catastrophe in Nagorno-Karabakh, what inspired the Armenian people to re-elect Nikol Pashinyan? Perhaps it was precisely because of how vulnerable the country feels itself to be. The strategy is to buy off and shore up: peace with Azerbaijan, EU candidacy, and normalisation with old enemy Turkey. But how low can you lie in a region that Russia sees as its backyard?Do check out our Substack if you can - https://multipolaritypod.substack.com/

Week in Review - June 7, 2026In this episode of Groong Week in Review, we analyze the disputed results of Armenia's June 7, 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election. We examine Civil Contract's contested majority, alleged irregularities and invalid ballots, the OSCE/ODIHR preliminary report, the last-minute exclusion of Prosperous Armenia, opposition arrests and pressure, and what a three-fifths majority could mean for Armenia's courts, institutions, and foreign policy.Topics:Disputed mandate, unresolved majorityElection-day irregularities in plain sightODIHR's mixed preliminary verdictBribery replaced by state spendingOpposition's next steps uncertainHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 556 | Recorded: Jun 9, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/556Try the Groong Podcast App#ArmenianElections #ArmenianNews #CivilContract #Pashinyan #Election2026 #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Spotlight on Silence - June 6, 2026In this Spotlight on Silence episode, we speak with Rafael Ishkhanyan of the Armenian Center for Political Rights about selective justice and state pressure ahead of the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election. We discuss wiretaps and leaks targeting opposition figures, abuse of hate speech laws against government critics, military service summons used as political coercion, and Pashinyan's threats against political opponents and Artsakh Armenians.Topics:Selective law enforcement before electionsWiretaps, leaks, and campaign pressureHate speech laws against criticsOfficial threats without consequencesMilitary summons as political coercionGuest: Rafael IshkhanyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 555 | Recorded: June 4, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/555VIDEO: https://youtu.be/wSZ7eO3JIKQ#Armenia #ArmenianElections #HumanRights #PoliticalPersecution #Artsakh #RafaelIshkhanyan #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - June 4, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Dr. Philippe Raffi Kalfayan about Armenia's deteriorating democratic conditions ahead of the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election. We discuss IODA's second election observation mission, widespread arrests of opposition figures, state intimidation of voters, selective prosecution, and the serious threats to electoral legitimacy and civil rights under the Civil Contract regime.Topics:Arrests of government criticsState pressure on votersPublic resources used for campaignsSelective prosecution before electionsElection legitimacy under serious doubtGuest: Philippe Raffi KalfayanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 554 | Recorded: June 3, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/554VIDEO: https://youtu.be/L9vKGO5Ezr4#Armenia #ArmenianElections #Election2026 #IODA #OSCE #ODIHR #Geopolitics #DemocracySubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week In Review - May 31, 2026In this episode of Groong's Week in Review, hosts Hovik and Asbed examine Armenia's May 28 Independence Day parade as campaign theater, Marco Rubio's push for critical minerals deals, and the strategic risks of TRIPP in Syunik. We discuss how Pashinyan's military parade coincides with Armenian prisoners of war held hostage in Baku, the questionable financing of weapons through $8 billion in external debt, and the broader geopolitical pressures from Russia and Iran as Armenia heads into the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election.Topics:May 28 and StatehoodParade as Campaign TheaterRubio's Armenia AgreementsMinerals Without GuaranteesTRIPP Risks in SyunikRussia and Iran PushbackElection Climate and RepressionHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 553 | Recorded: June 1, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/553VIDEO: https://youtu.be/oO5kbg6B_Q8#Armenia #May28 #MarcoRubio #TRIPP #Syunik #CriticalMinerals #ElectionFraud #RussiaArmeniaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - June 1, 2026In this Conversations on Groong episode, Hovik and Asbed speak with Dr. Sergey Markedonov about the sharp decline in Russia-Armenia relations before Armenia's June parliamentary elections. The discussion explores whether the vote is only a domestic contest, or a broader struggle over Armenia's identity, security, and geopolitical direction after Artsakh. Topics include Pashinyan's "Real Armenia" project, TRIPP and regional balance, Russia's warnings over Armenia's EU pivot, pressure on Armenian exports and energy pricing, the role of the Armenian Church, and whether the EU offers Armenia a real strategic alternative or only short-term political support.Topics:TRIPP and Regional BalanceArmenia's Geopolitical ElectionPashinyan's "Real Armenia"Russia's Economic PressureGuest: Sergey MarkedonovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 552 | Recorded: May 31, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/552VIDEO: https://youtu.be/5K3xqqYouKs#RussiaArmenia #SergeyMarkedonov #ArmeniaElections #Pashinyan #RealArmenia #TRIPP #EAEU #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - May 31, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Arthur Khachatryan of the Hayastan Dashinq, Armenia Alliance about the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election scheduled for June 7. We discuss whether free and fair elections are possible given foreign interference from the West, abuse of administrative resources by the ruling Civil Contract party, media control, and competing pressures from the United States, EU, Russia, and regional actors including Turkey and Azerbaijan.Topics:Free and fair electionsPolls and opposition unityHayastan Dashinq platformTRIPP and foreign policyEconomy and Russian pressureGuest: Arthur KhachatryanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 551 | Recorded: May 30, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/551VIDEO: https://youtu.be/uQn81n-zHcw#ArmeniaElections #ArthurKhachatryan #HayastanDashinq #ArmenianOpposition #Pashinyan #TRIPP #SouthCaucasus #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Week in Review - May 13, 2026In this Week in Review, we discuss the fallout from the EPC summit in Yerevan, Armenia's role as a platform for anti-Russian messaging, and Putin's warning about a possible “separation” if Armenia moves toward the EU. They examine the Armenia-EU declaration, focusing on TRIPP, Ukraine, hybrid threats, security cooperation, visa liberalization, and the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant. The episode then turns to Armenia's election campaign, Pashinyan's claim that Artsakh was “never ours,” Aliyev's parallel messaging from occupied Artsakh, pressure on opposition figures, the Swiss Peace Initiative, and sharp divergence between election polls.Topics:EPC fallout and Russia responseArmenia-EU declaration controversiesPashinyan's Artsakh campaign narrativeAliyev-Pashinyan tag-team messagingSwiss Peace InitiativePollsters diverge on election forecastsHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 545 | Recorded: May 12, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/545VIDEO: https://youtu.be/pLYUk6q9Wx4#WeekInReview #Armenia #SwissPeaceInitiative #NagornoKarabakh #ArtsakhSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - May 11, 2026Anna Grigoryan of Hayastan Dashinq (Armenia Alliance) joins Groong to discuss Armenia's June 7 parliamentary election and the start of the official campaign. The conversation examines the EPC and Armenia-EU summits in Yerevan, EU political and financial support for Pashinyan, Aliyev's remote demarche, and opposition protests around Artsakh rights, Armenian prisoners, and democratic backsliding. The episode also covers opposition coalition math, Hayastan Dashinq's 8% bloc threshold, Strong Armenia's lead among opposition forces, possible post-election governing formulas, and the risks of a falsified vote. Grigoryan also discusses Armenia's foreign policy direction, the peace treaty with Azerbaijan, TRIPP and Syunik amid the Iran war, education as a national priority, and Hayastan Dashinq's core message to voters.Topics:Election campaign and opposition strategyEPC, EU-Armenia summit, and foreign influenceForeign policy, security, and regional risksDomestic priorities and election integrityGuest: Anna GrigoryanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 544 | Recorded: May 9, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/544VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SV2I8iBr9ss#AnnaGrigoryan #Armenia #ArmenianPolitics #ArmeniaElections #HayastanDashinq #EPCSummit #TRIPP #ArtsakhSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - May 3, 2026This Groong Week in Review examines a volatile week across Armenia and the region. Asbed and Hovik discuss Trump's declared ceasefire with Iran, the failed US-Iran talks in Islamabad, the continuing naval blockade, and the wider political pressure shaping Washington's war posture. The episode also covers “Operation Kochari,” the secret visit of Azerbaijani deputy prime minister Shahin Mustafayev to Armenia, border demarcation, TRIPP, and the political theater around trade with Azerbaijan. The discussion turns to Azerbaijan's destruction of the Stepanakert cathedral, the muted international response, and Pashinyan's comments on the issue. The hosts also analyze the latest MPG poll, opposition coalition math, election fraud concerns, the EPC meeting, legal pressure on the opposition, mass surveillance, and Armenia's falling press freedom ranking.Topics:Iran WarMustafayev in ArmeniaDestruction of the Stepanakert cathedral by AzerbaijanElection politicsHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 539 | Recorded: May 2, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/539VIDEO: https://youtu.be/eIIg1IWYm1w#Armenia #Azerbaijan #IranWar #TRIPP #Artsakh #Stepanakert #ArmenianElections #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - May 3, 2026In this Conversations on Groong episode, Hrair Balian joins us to discuss his book Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno Karabakh Conflict & Missed Opportunities, the failure of diplomacy around Artsakh, and what Armenia should learn from the long collapse of the peace process. The conversation also looks at the Iran war, US and Israeli goals in the region, the TRIPP/Zangezur Corridor and its security impact on Armenia, and the role of outside powers in shaping outcomes in the South Caucasus. The episode closes with a discussion of Armenia's June parliamentary elections, opposition repression, election monitoring, and whether international observers will judge the vote by facts on the ground or political convenience.Mr. Balian's book: https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Peacemaking-Nagorno-Karabakh-Opportunities-Rethinking/dp/3032124891Topics:US-Iran war and failed diplomacyTRIPP and Armenia's security risksKarabakh negotiations and missed chancesPashinyan's Artsakh policy reversalArmenia's June elections and monitoringGuest: Hrair BalianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 538 | Recorded: April 30, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/538VIDEO: https://youtu.be/5ubpIoBjAI0#HrairBalian #Groong #Armenia #Artsakh #NagornoKarabakh #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #ArmenianElectionsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - Apr 30, 2026In this Conversations on Groong episode, we speak with Arega Hovsepyan of the Strong Armenia party about Armenia's June 2026 parliamentary elections, opposition politics, and the shifting geopolitical landscape in the South Caucasus. The discussion covers recent arrests of Strong Armenia members, political pressure on the opposition, and concerns about democratic processes under Pashinyan. We also examine the situation of displaced Artsakh Armenians, including rights, return, voting access, and living conditions in Armenia. The episode explores competing narratives around “peace” with Azerbaijan, the implications of the Zangezur Corridor or TRIPP project, and how regional dynamics involving Iran, Russia, and Turkey shape Armenia's security and political future. Topics:Strong Armenia and election dynamicsNew arrests and political pressureArtsakh Armenians and their rightsTRIPP corridor and regional securityGuest: Arega HovsepyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 537 | Recorded: Apr 28, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/537VIDEO: https://youtu.be/G2lysDT6SSQ#Armenia #Artsakh #StrongArmenia #AregaHovsepyan #ArmenianPolitics #SouthCaucasus #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - April 26, 2026This Week in Review on Groong examines how the Iran war fallout and the extension of the ceasefire are reshaping Armenia's geopolitical position. We break down the push for the TRIPP or Zangezur Corridor and the claims of Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization, and assess how they tie to regional power dynamics involving Iran, Russia, Turkey, and the United States. The episode also covers Armenia's 2026 elections and rising elite tensions. In addition, we discuss the global commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, contrasting international messaging with domestic narratives and linking it to ongoing debates around Artsakh and historical continuity.Topics:  - TRIPP hinges on Iran war outcome  - Armenian Genocide commemoration  - Peace narrative vs corridor reality  - Parliamentary electionGuest: Arthur G MartirosyanHosts:  - Hovik Manucharyan  - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 536 | Recorded: April 27, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/536VIDEO: https://youtu.be/tu49vlEYJKU#Armenia #IranWar #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #Elections2026 #SouthCaucasus #Geopolitics #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - April 19, 2026In this Week in Review episode, Ambassador Dziunik Aghajanian discusses the stalled Iran negotiations after the Islamabad talks, the renewed pressure around Hormuz and the naval blockade, Turkey's posture toward Israel and the region; Armenia's lower-profile participation in the Antalya Diplomatic Forum; Russia's shifting rhetoric on TRIPP and the South Caucasus; and the June 7 parliamentary election in Armenia, including constitutional changes, border concessions, the gas pipeline rerouting issue, and the use of surveillance and arrests against opposition figures.TopicsIran War UpdateAntalya Diplomatic ForumArmenian Parliamentary ElectionGuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 532 | Recorded: April 20, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/532Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

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