Cybercrime & Courts: Armenian national Karen Serobovich Vardanyan pleaded guilty in the U.S. to aiding the Ryuk ransomware campaign that stole over $15m in bitcoin from American organizations (2019–2020), with sentencing expected this autumn. Trade & Sanctions: Russia’s export restrictions on Armenian goods—especially agriculture—remain in place after the June 7 elections, while the EU is moving to liberalize access for about 80% of Armenia’s exports and offer support to diversify the economy. Regional Connectivity & Investment: Armenia-Iran cooperation is advancing via a planned Strategic Partnership, while TRIPP-related reporting frames the South Caucasus as a corridor for Western trade and resources that reduces reliance on Russia, Iran, and China. Business Climate & Jobs: Armenia’s crackdown tied to opposition leader Gagik Tsarukyan has reportedly left 10,000+ workers without work, and employees are protesting closures and seized equipment. Food Safety: Armenia’s food safety regulator suspended Martin Star vanilla ice cream production over alleged non-compliance (coliform bacteria), with the company disputing the inspection results. Banking & CSR: Ameriabank gathered winners of its “My Armenia, My Future” student competition, awarding stipends to 200 students. Telecom: Viva (Armenia) finalized a strategic acquisition of Ovio to build a converged mobile, fixed, TV and digital services ecosystem. Public Finance: Armenia’s Central Bank warns that tighter export restrictions to Russia could cost up to 2% of GDP in a worst case.