Baku: The trial of Ruben Vardanyan, an Armenian citizen accused of various crimes under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, continued at the Baku Military Court. The charges against Vardanyan include crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, and other serious offenses. Presided over by Judge Zeynal Agayev, with judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge Gunel Samedova), the court ensured Vardanyan was provided with a Russian interpreter and a state-appointed lawyer.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the court proceedings commenced with Vardanyan’s request to consult with his defense counsel, which was granted. The prosecution then presented its case, with Senior Assistant to the Prosecutor General Vusal Aliyev outlining the charges. Over the past year, evidence and testimonies from victims and witnesses had been reviewed, leading the prosecution to assert the accused’s guilt.
The prosecutor highlighted that Vardanyan’s involvement with a criminal organization formed by Armenia in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan was a key aspect of the charges. It was argued that Vardanyan knowingly participated in crimes against the Azerbaijani state and its people, understanding their gravity. The prosecution also detailed the occupation of various Azerbaijani regions by Armenian forces between 1988 and 1994, resulting in significant destruction and displacement.
Further evidence included an inspection protocol from October 26, 2023, confirming Vardanyan’s involvement with the criminal organization since December 2020. His connections with Vartanov Vladimir, founder of the terrorist organization ‘VoMa,’ were also discussed, highlighting their communication and coordination of terrorist activities against Azerbaijan.
Another charge involved Vardanyan’s illegal crossing of the Azerbaijani border in September 2022. The prosecution presented evidence of his illegal entry and subsequent travels, supported by documents found during his detention. Additionally, Vardanyan was accused of facilitating mine-laying operations and establishing military depots in liberated Azerbaijani territories.
The prosecutor also addressed Vardanyan’s alleged attempt to procure unmanned aerial vehicles for the criminal organization. Given the severity of the charges, the prosecution proposed a life sentence for Vardanyan, encompassing various crimes under Azerbaijani law. The court was also advised to remove certain charges and reclassify some offenses under lesser penalties.
The proposed life sentence would commence from Vardanyan’s detention date, September 27, 2023, with his arrest remaining in effect until the verdict is finalized. The next court session is scheduled for December 26.