Baku: The open court proceedings against citizens of the Republic of Armenia, including Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, and others, accused of crimes against peace and humanity, resumed with final statements from the accused. The charges stem from Armenia's military actions against Azerbaijan and include planning and waging war, genocide, and other serious offenses.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the hearing took place at the Baku Military Court, presided over by Judge Zeynal Agayev, with Judges Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev present. The accused were provided with interpreters and legal counsel. The session was attended by the accused, their attorneys, some victims, and prosecutors.

Judge Agayev announced the continuation of final statements, with Levon Mnatsakanyan presenting his defense. Mnatsakanyan refuted charges of planning April 2016 battles, claiming operations were independently conducted by local units. He denied deliberate attacks on civilian targets and stated only military objectives were engaged.

Mnatsakanyan also addressed accusations of damage to forests and historical monuments, arguing these could have been caused by various weapons, not just artillery. He listed other weapons used, such as tanks, mortars, and grenades.

Regarding the Tunnell and Bashlibel incidents, Mnatsakanyan claimed no involvement, citing medical treatment during the events. He explained that artillery units were still forming at the time.

The trial involves fifteen Armenian defendants accused of crimes during the war against Azerbaijan, allegedly orchestrated by Armenian state officials and military leaders. The charges include planning aggressive war, genocide, terrorism, and other violations of international law.

The accused face multiple charges under Azerbaijan's Criminal Code, including planning war, genocide, terrorism, and illegal arms possession, among others. The court proceedings are set to continue on December 25.