Alen Simonyan on Russians Avoiding Mobilization Coming to Armenia

The authorities of Armenia are not planning to obstruct the entry of Russians into the country who attempt to flee to Armenia in the event of a new mobilization being declared in Russia. This was stated by the Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia, Alen Simonyan, in an interview with "Дождь."

Journalist Ekaterina Kotrikanidzе asked Simonyan whether Armenia is prepared to accept Russians wanting to avoid going to the frontlines. Simonyan responded, "No one at the border will ask anyone why they are here. As you know, people can enter Armenia from Russia without a foreign passport. All I can say to the Russians is, 'Welcome to Armenia.' Here, we love and respect everyone. They will find everything they are looking for by coming to Armenia. And they will return to Russia when it is convenient for them. Armenia will not hinder this in any way, and if necessary, will assist."

Various sources have reported in recent months about the possibility of a new mobilization in Russia. However, the Kremlin dismissed the information about a new mobilization on August 25 as "information forgeries." At the same time, prior to the declaration of partial mobilization in September 2022, Russian authorities also denied reports of preparations for it.