Baku: The trial of Ruben Vardanyan, an Armenian citizen facing serious allegations under the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan, continues to unfold at the Baku Military Court. The charges against Vardanyan include torture, mercenary activity, violation of the laws and customs of war, terrorism, and financing terrorism, among others. The preparatory session of the court, presided over by Judge Zeynal Agayev, is being conducted in the new administrative building of the Baku Court Complex.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the court proceedings began with the clarification of Vardanyan’s questionnaire details during the preparatory session that started on January 17. Vardanyan has been provided with a defense attorney of his choosing and a Russian translator to assist him in the trial. Despite having been given ample time to review the criminal case materials in a language he understands during the preliminary investigation, the court acknowledged his request for additional time. Consequently, an additional 10 days have been granted for him to familiarize himself with the case materials, a decision that faced no objection from the prosecution.
The preparatory hearing is set to continue on January 27. Vardanyan is accused of a range of offenses under various articles of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code, including planning and waging a war of aggression, deportation or forcible transfer of the population, persecution, deprivation of liberty contrary to international law, and several others. These charges highlight the severe nature of the allegations against him.
The open court hearing will also address criminal cases related to crimes against peace and humanity, such as war crimes, genocide, forced displacement, persecution, and torture, allegedly committed by the Armenian state and its armed forces. These acts also involve the so-called “Nagorno-Garabagh Republic” established in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan and its illegal armed formations.
Fifteen individuals, including Harutyunyan Arayik, Ghukasyan Arkady, Saakyan Bako, and others, are accused of participating in these criminal acts. They face charges under multiple articles of the Azerbaijani Criminal Code, including planning and waging a war of aggression, genocide, destruction of the population, and other severe offenses. These cases underscore the ongoing legal efforts to address alleged violations and crimes committed during the conflict.