On April 16, Vardan Ghukasyan was elected Mayor of Gyumri during the first session of the Gyumri Council of Elders, receiving 18 votes in favor and none against. Ghukasyan was supported by 18 of the 19 opposition members of the council, while the 14-member faction of the ruling Civil Contract party did not participate in the session.

In a conversation with journalists on the same day, Ghukasyan was asked whether he might be nominated for the post of Prime Minister of Armenia in 2026. He responded that he would consider it if supported by the public, stating, "If people call and say, ‘We believe you should take this responsibility,’ and stand by me with their support, then yes."

Ghukasyan also expressed support for a union state model similar to that of Belarus. He reiterated campaign promises that Russian businessmen would invest in Gyumri, saying, "We must address the hospital issue and establish joint factories and enterprises with Russia. All this will happen." He added that while pro-Western forces might attract investments from Europe and America, he would ensure land availability and take necessary steps to support such ventures.

Addressing potential criticism for advocating a union state, Ghukasyan said he is unafraid of backlash and emphasized that Armenia needs a reliable partner while preserving its independence and sovereignty. He stated, "Let them criticize; I’m not afraid at all, and I believe I’m right. We should follow the Belarus model."

Regarding cooperation with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Ghukasyan remarked, "I unequivocally oppose his political views and 99.9% of his actions, but local self-government is a different matter." He noted that, despite being elected by various factions without a formal coalition, he plans to consult all parties before making decisions. When asked about balancing respect for the Prime Minister’s office with political opposition, Ghukasyan said, "I will respect the office of the Prime Minister, but their behavior will determine my response—what you give is what you get."

Notably, Vardan Ghukasyan, born on January 20, 1961, in Leninakan (now Gyumri), is a prominent Armenian politician and businessman. He graduated from the Kirovakan Trade and Economic College in 1984. Ghukasyan served as Mayor of Gyumri for 13 years, from 2002 to 2015, and was re-elected on April 16, 2025, with unanimous support from the attending city council members. Running as a candidate for the Communist Party of Armenia, he secured 18 votes, while the ruling Civil Contract party boycotted the session. Prior to his re-election, Ghukasyan faced legal challenges, including an arrest on weapons charges in February 2025, which he claimed was politically motivated. Following his re-election, Ghukasyan expressed intentions to meet with other city council factions to discuss potential joint programs.