Baku: The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, who faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, continued with testimonies from victims and their legal successors. The proceedings are taking place at the Baku Military Court, presided over by Judge Zeynal Agayev, with Judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov. Vardanyan has been charged with crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, and other serious offenses.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the open court session provided Vardanyan with a translator and a lawyer of his choice. Judge Zeynal Agayev informed the victims and their legal successors about their rights and obligations under the law. The court then proceeded to hear their testimonies. Sima Tanriverdiyeva, the mother of victim Ayaz Nazirov, stated her son was killed in Kalbajar due to enemy provocation. Shahbaz Gasimov, father of Garib Gasimov, testified his son was killed in Khojavend from gunfire by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal armed groups.

Further testimonies included accounts from Mahammadali Jafarov, father of Ravan Jafarov, and other victims like Mirza Agayev and Zakir Mirzayev, who described injuries sustained due to enemy actions in Khojavend. The victims recounted incidents involving artillery fire, sniper attacks, and mortar explosions resulting in injuries and fatalities.

The court session also covered forensic medical examination reports of the victims. The next hearing is scheduled for September 9, where the trial will continue to address the charges against Vardanyan, which include planning and waging a war of aggression, deportation, persecution, terrorism, and more.