Baku: Court hearings on the criminal case against Ruben Vardanyan, an Armenian citizen facing charges of terrorism, mercenary activity, and other criminal offenses under Azerbaijani law, continued at the Baku Military Court. Presided over by Judge Zeynal Agayev, the open hearings delved into Vardanyan’s alleged activities, including his secret communications on platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the proceedings involved a panel of judges and provided Vardanyan with legal counsel and an interpreter. During the session, Vardanyan’s attorney, Avraam Berman, sought additional provisions for his client, including a notice of rights and more access to case materials. However, Senior Assistant to the Prosecutor General, Vusal Aliyev, pointed out that similar motions had previously been addressed, asserting that Vardanyan had ample opportunity to review the materials.

The court confirmed that Vardanyan had been informed of his rights and obligations during the investigation and trial. Despite this, Vardanyan declined to make a statement when given the chance.

Prosecutors questioned Vardanyan on several matters, including his affiliations with organizations under the guise of humanitarian work and his involvement in military equipment procurement. They also inquired about his connections with figures like Vladimir Vartanov, linked to training illegal armed groups, and his communications with Vladimir Sergeyevich Poghosyan regarding security operations against Azerbaijan.

Further inquiries targeted Vardanyan’s alleged role in military training camps, the financing of terrorism, and the acquisition of military equipment. The hearings also examined Vardanyan’s movements between Armenia and Karabakh and his alleged orchestration of a terrorist operation targeting Azerbaijani diplomats.

Throughout the session, Vardanyan remained silent, not answering any questions posed by the prosecution. His electronic communications, including voice messages and other materials, were presented as evidence in the courtroom. The court proceedings are set to continue on March 11.