Armenian Blogger Jailed in Belarus Over Azerbaijan Complaints Returns to Yerevan

An Armenian blogger, Bella Babakhanyan, has returned to Armenia after being detained in Belarus for 14 days. Her arrest sparked widespread concern, as many believed she was targeted for her outspoken defense of Armenian interests and her debates with Azerbaijanis on social media. The Armenian Report was at the airport tonight to greet the Armenian activist and interview her.

Bella Babakhanyan, who holds both Armenian and Belarusian citizenship, was reportedly arrested on February 14 in Belarus. News of her detention was first shared by journalist and blogger Alexander Lapshin, who cited sources from the Belarusian Embassy in Armenia.

According to reports, Babakhanyan faced multiple charges under the Belarusian Criminal Code, including inciting national and religious hatred, spreading war propaganda, slander, insulting government officials, and making threats. While Belarusian authorities did not release an official statement, speculation grew that her arrest was influenced by Azerbaijan, following complaints about her online activity.

Before her detention, Babakhanyan had expressed concerns that Azerbaijani individuals and groups were targeting her. She claimed that Azerbaijanis had significant influence in Belarus and that she feared an eventual arrest and possible extradition to Azerbaijan.

As news of her detention spread, efforts to secure her release intensified. Armenian businessman and political figure Gagik Tsarukyan stepped in to provide legal and diplomatic support. His spokesperson, Iveta Tonoyan, confirmed that Tsarukyan had used his connections to assess the situation and offer assistance to Babakhanyan.

"Our compatriot found herself in a difficult situation, and Gagik Tsarukyan considered it his duty to use all possible methods, diplomatic channels, and personal connections to ensure she received the necessary legal and other support," Tonoyan stated.

On February 23, Babakhanyan was released and returned to Armenia. Speaking to reporters, she explained that her arrest was linked to a video she had filmed in Yerevan near the grave of Armenian military commander Andranik Ozanian. In the video, she had made a statement that angered Azerbaijanis:

"Andranik, you should have destroyed everyone at the time so that there wouldn't be a Yerablur today."

Yerablur is a military cemetery in Armenia where soldiers who died in wars, including the Nagorno-Karabakh war, are buried. The video reportedly led to complaints from Azerbaijanis, which may have contributed to her arrest.

When asked by The Armenian Report whether she planned to continue speaking out despite the risks, Babakhanyan gave a firm response:

"I’m going to keep speaking up."

She also revealed that she is considering staying in Armenia permanently, as she believes other countries have become increasingly unsafe for her work and activism.

Babakhanyan’s arrest has reignited concerns over the influence of Azerbaijan in countries like Belarus and the broader issue of freedom of speech for Armenian activists abroad.

Her case shows the dangers faced by individuals who engage in political discussions online, especially in regions where geopolitical tensions are high.

While she is now safe in Armenia, Babakhanyan’s story serves as a reminder of the risks that come with speaking out on controversial issues. 

The relationship between Belarus and Armenia, as well as Belarus and Azerbaijan, has taken a sharp turn in recent years, reflecting shifting geopolitical alignments. The latest diplomatic tensions show a deepening divide between Armenia and Belarus while strengthening ties between Belarus and Azerbaijan.

Видео Armenian Blogger Jailed in Belarus Over Azerbaijan Complaints Returns to Yerevan канала The Armenian Report