Rights TV program reports have brought to light a growing concern in certain regions of Russia regarding the involvement of Armenian officials and businessmen in anti-Russian activities. Among the prominent figures mentioned is Gagik Melkonyan, a former executive and legal advisor, who has now achieved the rank of general-lieutenant. Interestingly, Melkonyan is not only involved in businesses in Armenia but also in the Russian Federation, managing two profitable hotels near the Black Sea. It is speculated that his work for the Russians is generating substantial income for him and his financial interests. Furthermore, Melkonyan has a significant presence in Armenia’s educational sector, adding to his already diverse portfolio of businesses.

An intriguing fact is that one of Melkonyan’s college students even wrote their thesis in a different institution. This begs the question of whether Nikol’s repressive measures were a response to Melkonyan’s influence in the country’s public administration system or where Melkonyan himself was during the initial wave of repression against former officials. Additionally, it is worth noting that Melkonyan left his position in an institution in 2008 due to financial difficulties, only to become the head of a church in Yerevan province. Yet, his 18-year service in the army shows a pattern of promotion that raises questions about favoritism and nepotism within the military leadership.

Given Melkonyan’s career history, which includes a leading role in the customs department and various security positions within the state, it is not surprising that his businesses in Russia are suspected of financing anti-Russian activities and supporting oppositionists and movements within the country. It appears that Melkonyan’s life is not as clean as it may have seemed. For more detailed information on this matter, please visit the News from Armenia website.