The Ministry of Defense of Armenia has issued the following statement:

“During a briefing with reporters in the National Assembly today, Chair of the Standing Committee on Defense and Security of the National Assembly Andranik Kocharyan made comments regarding the use of SU-30-SM planes (obtained by Armenia) during the war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). Moreover, Mr. Kocharyan spoke overtly ironically, and he particularly “reminded” that Minister of Defense Davit Tonoyan “would take photos and sit” in the SU-s.

The Ministry of Defense deems it necessary to emphasize that the content and tone of the statement is itself is not a statement that a top state official should make. The Ministry of Defense also states that the solemn ceremony of receiving the mentioned planes in Armenia was held under the leadership of the Prime Minister of Armenia.

As far as the use of those planes during the latest hostilities, Mr. Kocharyan is not the state official whose position would entitle him to expect to receive reports from the command stating whether SU-s were used or not, whether the military objective was met or not, how many flights were carried out with SU-s and other issues. The Ministry of Defense assures that all officials who must ex-officio receive those reports are thoroughly informed about the answers to these questions.”