Armenia initiates first known Russian-backed espionage investigation against opposition candidate Andranik Tevanyan accused of passing state secrets for $622,000.

Armenia has launched what appears to be its first-ever investigation into Russian-backed espionage, targeting opposition politician Andranik Tevanyan, a candidate on Gagik Tsarukyan’s electoral list for the 2026 parliamentary elections. Tevanyan is accused of recruitment by foreign intelligence services in 2024 and passing state secrets in exchange for $622,000, allegedly under instructions from a foreign intelligence representative described as director of the 'Russia Caucasus' geopolitical centre. The investigation includes searches at Tevanyan's party office and apartment, and the home of MP Martun Grigoryan, also linked to Tsarukyan's list. The Armenian Investigative Committee states Tevanyan illegally collected and transferred Russian-translated information from a closed parliamentary session held in April 2024. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced the case and indicated Armenia and Russia have an agreement against espionage on each other's territory. The case is politically sensitive amid upcoming elections and rivalry with opposition parties. Tevanyan denies the allegations, calling them fabricated. Conviction could lead to a life sentence. Pashinyan also suggested the case might relate to Tsarukyan’s family dynamics, including his son, Nver Tsarukyan, who is wanted over a 2024 shooting and is abroad. The investigation follows Pashinyan's earlier warnings about individuals allegedly acting on foreign agendas.