Armenia's PM accuses head of Church of fathering child in febrile political row

Armenia's PM accuses head of Church of fathering child, escalating political tensions and affecting upcoming elections and peace talks in the region. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's extraordinary allegations against Catholicos Karekin II include breaking vows of celibacy. As the rift intensifies between government and Church, with the opposition supporting the Church, these developments could impact Armenia's political landscape and peace negotiations with neighboring Azerbaijan. The government's unexpected attack on the Church leader might be a preemptive move ahead of the 2026 general elections, stirring controversy and dissent within Armenian society.