In Yekaterinburg, a court case was initiated against two representatives of the Armenian community for organizing a demonstration in support of Artsakh. In particular, a lawsuit was commenced against Masis Nazaryan, the head of the regional non-governmental organization “Ani-Haystan Armenian Community” by part 2 of Article 20.2 of the RF Administrative Code (holding or organizing a public event without notifying it in the prescribed manner).
On January 23, several dozen people held a demonstration in support of the people of Artsakh. The protest took place near the Saint Karapet Church, which in 2002 was built by the efforts of the Ural Armenian community. It was this demonstration that became the basis of an administrative offense.
Another case was initiated against activist Elen Kirakosyan, the leader of the Armenian Patriotic Union of the Ural University, who was detained for five days.
The Union of Armenians of Russia has announced that it will support Masis Nazaryan and Elen Kirakosyan for the Yekaterinburg court’s “preliminary ruling.”
Prepared by Victoria ANDREASYAN