Armenia opens case against church leader over Russian espionage claim

Armenia has begun a case involving the leader of the Armenian Apostolic Church, with prosecutors alleging he acted as a Russian spy. The proceedings could expose senior clergy to prison terms if the accusations are upheld.

The case centers on the church’s top figure, whose role gives him major influence in a country where the Apostolic Church remains a powerful institution. The allegations have added a political dimension to an already sensitive dispute.

Details of the evidence were not included in the source material. The development comes as Armenia continues to navigate strained relations with Russia and internal tensions over the church’s public role.