ARF Statement on the New Ministry of Defense Project

The Supreme Body of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) deems the new project by the Ministry of Defense unacceptable, which proposes the implementation of a new system for contract military service as well as a short-term mandatory military service for conscripts, with the condition of a significant payment from the state budget of Armenia.

The ARF Supreme Body has released a statement in this regard, stating: "In these days, when the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Artsakh are facing serious security challenges, when geopolitical developments and regional tensions are fraught with new, unpredictable threats at any moment, instead of strengthening the country's security, reorganizing the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia, implementing systemic reforms, and restoring the fighting spirit of the Armenian Army and the Armenian people, the authorities of Armenia continue to undermine the existing potential with yet another initiative.

The draft law on making changes and amendments to the law on 'Military Service and the Status of Military Servants' presented for public discussion by the authorities is a far-reaching blow to the unified security system of the country, public solidarity, national devotion to the Homeland, and the vital 'Nation-Army' concept for us. In fact, this is one of our greatest achievements, secured by the Artsakh Liberation War, at the cost of thousands of Armenian patriots' lives and nationwide support.