DISINFO: Eagle 2024 exercises are aimed at suppressing discontent with Pashinyan
SUMMARY
After the initial news about the exercises, Western propaganda kicked into action. However, upon closer inspection, it is evident that the Armenian army units are being trained to suppress a mock enemy using batons and shields. Logically, it is impossible for the Armenian army to fight with batons and shields. This suggests that the exercises are more aimed at suppressing the discontent of the Armenian people with Pashinyan. One of the goals is also to prepare the armed forces to quell mass protests.
RESPONSE
Disinformation targeting the joint Armenian-American "Eagle Partner 2024" military exercises. No evidence is provided to back up the claim.
Armenia has been subject to disinformation attacks from Russia after Prime Minister Pashinyan's statement that Armenia's policy of solely relying on Russia to guarantee its security was a strategic mistake. This latest narrative is designed to spread fear about a possible uprising and drive a wedge between Armenia and Western countries.
The statement was made in the context of joint Armenian-American "Eagle Partner 2024" military exercises, in an attempt to discredit any cooperation between Armenia and US/NATO. Eagle Partner is a collaborative exercise between the U.S. Army and the Armenian Armed Forces that allows for increased peacekeeping capabilities. The purpose of the exercise is to enhance the interoperability of units participating in international peacekeeping missions, exchange best practices in control and tactical communication, and improve the readiness of the Armenian unit.
See similar cases such as The West pits Armenia against Russia and Iran and Armenia and "the West" signed a de facto military pact.