Abramyan and the Unexpected Piano on the Garden Ring

While glasses clinked in Yerevan in honor of the army’s professional holiday, a particularly pointed message was circulating along the Garden Ring in Moscow. Ara Abrahamyan, often referred to as the chief “marshal of the rear,” did not wait for a formal signal to speak, and delivered a volley of remarks—carefully crafted words rather than artillery—aimed at those on the receiving end.

Reading his “congratulations,” one might think that Pashinyan should take note. What begins decorously—honor, glory, oath, heroism, a ceremonial parade—gradually shifts, and by the middle of the text, the celebratory tone unexpectedly turns into a sharp critique, touching even the international stage. Yet, as Abrahamyan explains, his intention is merely to convey congratulations.

According to him, the current government in Yerevan seems to be following an accelerated course on “how to alienate allies in 24 hours.” Missteps occur systematically, at all times of the day, creating a sense that the situation “used to be better,” especially when viewed from Moscow, where nostalgia for past practices remains palpable.

The highlight of Abrahamyan’s commentary, humorously referred to as the “piano in the bushes,” involves General Ter-Grigoryants, whose presence adds formality and gravitas to the remarks. It signals that these words are more than casual observations—they carry the weight of experience and authority, a kind of symbolic headquarters of oversight.

In his narrative, Abrahamyan combines critique with patriotic sentiment, emphasizing that while circumstances may change, the values and commitment he observes remain strong, carefully preserved, and presented with a sense of ceremony worthy of recognition.