Baku: The trial of Ruben Vardanyan, an Armenian citizen facing multiple charges including crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, and terrorism, continued at the Baku Military Court. The session, overseen by Judge Zeynal Aghayev and his panel, was held in open court with interpretation services provided for the defendant. Vardanyan, represented by lawyer Avraam Berman, challenged the court’s impartiality, arguing that they were denied full access to court minutes.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Prosecutor Vusal Aliyev countered these claims, stating that the defense had adequate opportunity to review the minutes and that the rejection of motions did not imply bias. The court dismissed the defense’s objections after deliberation, citing a lack of evidence for judicial partiality.

The session proceeded with poignant testimonies from victims of the armed attacks. Nurlan Baghirov, a serviceman from the Internal Troops, recounted a tragic assault by remnants of Armenian forces, resulting in the death of 14 servicemen and injuries to many, including himself. Shamil Israfilov corroborated the account, detailing his wounds from a grenade blast during the attack. Other testimonies came from servicemen like Vusal Eyyubov, who was also wounded, and Tajaddin Karimov, who suffered injuries from a mine explosion while clearing a supply route in Talish village.

Javanshir Sultanov and Seymur Aghakarimov shared their experiences of sustaining injuries during Armenian sabotage attempts and mortar shell explosions, respectively. Vagif Babayev of the Azerbaijan Mine Action Agency highlighted the dangers posed by landmines, recounting his own injuries from an anti-tank mine explosion in Zangilan.

The court reviewed forensic medical examination results on the victims, providing further insights into the severe impact of the attacks. The trial, which involves charges under numerous articles of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code, is set to continue with the next session scheduled for May 6.

Ruben Vardanyan’s charges are extensive, covering a wide array of serious offenses including planning and waging war, deportation, persecution, terrorism, and numerous violations of international humanitarian law. The proceedings are closely watched as they unfold in the Baku Military Court.