Baku: The appellate proceedings for Armenian citizens convicted by the Baku Military Court of crimes, including war crimes, genocide, and terrorism, commenced at the Baku Court of Appeal on June 9. The session, overseen by a judicial panel chaired by Judge Elmar Rahimov, included Judges Emin Mehdiyev and Mehriban Garayeva, with Ali Mammadov serving as a reserve judge.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the appellants, such as Arayik Harutyunyan and Arkadi Ghukasyan, were provided with interpreters and legal counsel. The hearing also saw participation from representatives of the victims, state prosecutors, and the Ombudsman's Office. During the session, translations of documents requested previously by some defendants were presented.

Defendant Davit Ishkhanyan sought access to the transcript of a prior court session, with the presiding judge outlining the procedure for obtaining such documents. The court decided to proceed with oral arguments, allowing the defense to present their case. However, most defense attorneys requested a postponement to better prepare, except for Harutyunyan's lawyer.

The session was temporarily adjourned to allow for confidential consultations between defendants and their lawyers. Following the recess, the court continued with the arguments. Harutyunyan's lawyer argued for his acquittal, a position Harutyunyan supported. The next hearing is set for June 16.

The initial verdict by the Baku Military Court, issued on February 5, 2026, sentenced Harutyunyan and others to life imprisonment, with varying sentences for additional defendants, ranging from 15 to 20 years in prison.