Political analyst Suren Sargsyan has criticized the Armenian government’s decision to cut the country’s defense budget, calling it “alarming” in the context of Azerbaijan’s rising military spending and recent statements from U.S. leaders, including President Donald Trump.
“It’s evident this is not being done out of necessity or strategic planning, but to promote a so-called peace agenda both domestically and internationally,” Sargsyan wrote on his Facebook page.
He emphasized that these reductions are happening during a time of global and regional turbulence, “when the world is headed in the opposite direction.”
Sargsyan pointed out that a new military mindset is forming globally, including within U.S. defense policy. “The U.S. is completely reshaping its military strategy. Renaming the Department of Defense to the ‘Department of War’ is not just symbolic. It signals a reassessment of global challenges,” he said.
He cited U.S. Secretary of War Grant Hegseth’s recent remarks that the country is preparing for conflict and will advance the principle of “peace through strength.” Hegseth reportedly stated that the Department of War’s only mission will be to conduct war.
Sargsyan also referenced Donald Trump’s announcement of plans to allocate $1 trillion for military needs in 2026, calling it an unprecedented budget.
“Against this backdrop, Armenia’s defense budget cuts resemble a display of reckless adventurism,” he concluded.
Armenia’s defense budget for 2026 is set at 563.1 billion drams, down from 664.6 billion drams in 2025—a decrease of 101.5 billion drams, as per the draft budget approved on September 25.
In contrast, Azerbaijan plans to increase its defense spending to $5.12 billion in 2026—$90 million more than in 2025.
