Russian Orthodox Church concerned over Armenian authorities` attempts  to interfere in AAC`s affairs 

ArmInfo. The Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) is concerned about attempts by Armenian authorities to grossly interfere in the affairs of the Armenian  Apostolic Church (AAC). Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, Chairman of the Moscow Patriarchate's Department for External Church Relations  (DECR), stated this at a meeting on Wednesday with Archbishop Yezras, head of the Russian and New Nakhichevan Diocese of the AAC.

"During the conversation, the DECR Chairman expressed support to  Archbishop Yezras regarding the pressure currently being exerted on  the Armenian Church. Metropolitan Anthony emphasized that the Russian  Orthodox Church is deeply concerned about attempts by representatives  of the Republic of Armenia to grossly interfere in church affairs and  considers attempts to artificially provoke a schism among believers  unacceptable," the DECR website stated. It is noted that Archbishop  Ezras informed the head of the DECR about the current state of  affairs in the Armenian Apostolic Church and thanked him for the  solidarity shown by the Moscow Patriarchate.

It should be noted that since May 2025, the Armenian authorities have  been actively pursuing an anti- church policy and are seeking the  resignation of Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, who is elected  to this position for life. This campaign has targeted both clergy and  citizens who support the Church.  Currently, four high-ranking clergy  are imprisoned on trumped-up charges as part of this anti-church  campaign. Furthermore, the Armenian prime minister and 10 schismatic  bishops signed a framework document on the so-called renewal of the  Armenian Church.