Baku: The open court hearing on the criminal cases involving Armenian citizens unveiled documents illustrating the recruitment of mercenaries by the Armenian armed forces for military operations against Azerbaijan.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the court session on October 9 disclosed excerpts from confidential letters from Azerbaijani institutions and detailed the involvement of foreign mercenaries. A document dated October 24, 2020, highlighted Armenia’s efforts to bolster its forces during the 44-day Patriotic War by recruiting foreign citizens. The Armenian government, along with diaspora organizations, urged Armenians worldwide to join the conflict in formerly occupied Azerbaijani territories. Campaigns and gathering points were set up in several countries, leading to the involvement of individuals from France, the U.S., Syria, Russia, and other nations. Organizations like VoMA and ASALA played roles in these operations.

Artur Oganisyan, who traveled from Marseille, France, fought with the Armenian forces in Hadrut and Jabrayil during the 2020 conflict. Additionally, a criminal case was filed against Gilbert Minasyan, an ASALA member, and his group for crimes in Azerbaijani regions.

Another document confirmed the participation of mercenaries from countries such as Syria, Russia, Spain, Canada, France, and others, alongside Armenian forces. These mercenaries, often previously engaged in training Armenian troops, were directly involved in combat during the war.

The court proceedings continue against Armenian nationals accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other serious offenses, including terrorism and the violent seizure of power.