Baku: Representatives of Azerbaijani NGOs have sent an open letter to U.S. President Donald Trump, countering an appeal by the U.S.-based Lemkin Institute. The appeal from the Lemkin Institute urged President Trump to pressure Azerbaijan to release individuals of Armenian origin, including Ruben Vardanyan, accused of war crimes. The Azerbaijani NGOs' letter, sent on December 25, aims to provide a different perspective on the situation.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, on December 23, 2025, the Azerbaijan National NGO Forum had already addressed an open letter to the Lemkin Institute. The forum accused the organization of representing the interests of revanchist groups in Armenia and attempting to undermine the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia. It criticized the Lemkin Institute for ignoring mass atrocities like the Khojaly genocide and called for an apology to the Azerbaijani public for its provocative stance.

The letter to President Trump, titled 'Upholding Law, Order, and the Vision for Trump Corridor for International Peace and Prosperity,' emphasizes the peaceful progress in the South Caucasus region attributed to Trump's leadership. It urges the President to consider the individuals' past actions, which allegedly resulted in prolonged occupation and ethnic cleansing in Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani NGOs highlight the transparency and legality of the ongoing trials, including that of Ruben Vardanyan, asserting that they adhere to international standards.

The letter also addresses allegations of religious persecution, asserting Azerbaijan's commitment to interfaith harmony and tolerance. It cites examples of religious coexistence in the country, such as the construction of a new Catholic church in Baku, to refute claims of religious conflict.

The representatives of Azerbaijani civil society express gratitude for President Trump's role in fostering peace and propose awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. They argue that entities like the Lemkin Institute aim to mislead the public and disrupt the peace achieved through Trump's mediation.

The letter is endorsed by 30 representatives from various Azerbaijani NGOs, including Ramil Iskandarli, Chairman of the Azerbaijan National NGO Forum, and other prominent figures from civil society organizations. The signatories emphasize their respect for President Trump's leadership and vision for global peace and prosperity.