U.S. Embassy Post-Election Warning

The Embassy of the United States in Armenia has issued a warden message to all its citizens residing in the country warning them to stay away from post-election protest demonstrations. Although such warnings are customary and to be expected, many observers and some political groups fear that there is the danger of possible demonstrations turning nasty depending on the outcome of next week’s vote. Ironically, but also as usual, the British Embassy has failed to send me anything.

Presidential elections will take place in Armenia on Tuesday, February 19

While U.S. Embassy Yerevan does not have specific information about planned political demonstrations, it is possible that political rallies and demonstrations may take place on or after election day in Armenia, most likely in the capital.

We wish to remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid any areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Information on upcoming demonstrations can be found at the following website:

http://yerevan.usembassy.gov/consular/acs_warden.php.