The 2026 state budget, when compared with the trend of previous years’ budget increases and in line with the overall growth trend of Armenia’s total budget, does not constitute any violation, except for the difference that occurred in 2025, when the scale of expenditures suddenly rose. Defense Minister Suren Papikyan told reporters in the National Assembly of Armenia Monday—and commenting on the fact that defense spending in the 2026 stated budget draft of Armenia has decreased compared to 2025.

“These are incurred expenses, and you see that difference on the same [20]26 expenses. If we compare [it] with 2024, it is a natural pace of development. There is nothing strange and unusual here. Armenia will continue its reforms according to its needs, including purchases of weapons and military equipment. But [the Armenian-Azerbaijani agreements in Washington on] August 8  is an important fact, and it cannot but be accepted by us as an established reality. Naturally, it will have its consequences,” added the Armenian defense minister.