Baku: The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, accused of committing crimes against peace and humanity, continued at the Baku Military Court. The session was presided over by Judge Zeynal Agayev, with Judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov also present. Vardanyan was provided with a Russian interpreter and had a defense attorney of his choice.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Judge Zeynal Agayev informed the victims and their legal heirs about their rights and obligations as they participated in the trial for the first time. The judge also addressed motions submitted by Vardanyan and his defense during previous sessions, ensuring that the court had reviewed and evaluated all such motions.
Ruben Vardanyan requested access to decisions and protocols from the preparatory sessions. His lawyer, Avraam Berman, supported this request. Judge Agayev assured that the court had and would continue to provide the necessary documents for review.
Testimonies were heard from victims and their legal heirs, recou
nting the impact of Armenia’s actions during the conflict. Sabir Latifov, Shiraslan Hasanov, Asif Shukurov, and others provided detailed accounts of how their family members were killed or injured due to enemy actions.
The court also presented findings from forensic medical examinations conducted on the victims. The next session is scheduled for July 15.
Ruben Vardanyan faces numerous charges under the Azerbaijani Criminal Code, including planning and waging a war of aggression, deportation, persecution, torture, and terrorism. These charges reflect severe violations of international humanitarian law and other grave offenses.