Serious personnel changes are expected against the background of deaths recorded in peaceful conditions in the Armenian armed forces. RA Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced in a press conference after the government session on August 13 about the upcoming dismissals of the leadership of the Military Police and Morale and Psychological Support Department, emphasizing the need for individual responsibility.
On August 13, the Ministry of Defense of Armenia informed about another tragic incident. the body of serviceman Grigor Zakaryan was found with a gunshot wound. This incident became the eighth death registered in the army in peaceful conditions since the beginning of 2026.
Prime Minister during the briefing held in the government Nikol Pashinyan noted that in the morning the problem was discussed with the Minister of Defense and specific decisions were already made. According to the Prime Minister, there will be personnel solutions in the bodies that are directly responsible for the discipline and personnel condition in the army, in particular, in the Military Police and the Department of Morale and Psychological Support of the Armed Forces.
The Prime Minister emphasized that each such case should imply clear individual responsibility. He also added that the efforts made by the Minister of Defense and the Chief of the General Staff in this direction are not enough. The government plans to analyze the situation in detail and understand why the measures taken so far do not produce the desired results and do not prevent tragic events.
Earlier, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that 85-90% of suicides recorded in the army in non-combat conditions are caused by three main domestic and personal situations. One of the reasons mentioned by Pashinyan is bets and debts.
Online betting by military personnel, resulting in large financial debts and inability to repay them. Another reason is family and personal problems. The acute relationship and psychological burden of soldiers in their personal, family or relatives.
The third reason is personal relationships. Non-statutory or strained relationships with colleagues or commanders that lead to psychological pressure.
—
Disclaimer: This article was contributed and translated into English by Alex Jidarian. While we strive for quality, the views and accuracy of the content remain the responsibility of the contributor. Please verify all facts independently before reposting or citing.
Direct link to this article: https://www.armenianclub.com/2026/08/14/personnel-changes-in-the-army-pashinyan-announced-dismissals/