On November 24, the trial of philanthropist, businessman, and former Artsakh State Minister Ruben Vardanyan continued in Baku, with the Azerbaijani court hearing testimonies from so-called “victims” in what has been widely criticized as a fabricated case.
The hearing, presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, included the introduction of the courtroom participants — prosecutors, interpreters, and defense — as well as an explanation of legal rights and duties to those present. According to Azertag, Vardanyan was provided with a Russian-language interpreter and a state-appointed lawyer.
Several “victims” and their legal successors were present for the first time and gave statements describing their participation in combat operations and injuries sustained during Azerbaijan’s military offensive against Artsakh.
The next court session is scheduled for November 25.
On January 16, Ruben Vardanyan stated that he has not given any testimony since his detention, apart from stating his name. He claims that all signed records attributed to him are falsified and that he, his lawyer, and his interpreter have been subjected to pressure.
