“I was wounded while retrieving bodies”: Victim recounts harrowing experience in Vardanyan’s trial
Court hearings on the criminal case against Ruben Vardanyan, an Armenian citizen, continued on April 1 at the Baku Military Court. Vardanyan is facing charges of torture, mercenary activity, violation of laws and customs of warfare, terrorism, financing terrorism, and other articles of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan.
The proceedings were overseen by Judge Zeynal Agayev and a panel of judges, with the accused being provided with an interpreter in Russian and defense lawyers. The court questioned victims of the criminal acts committed by Vardanyan, who allegedly joined a criminal organization under the direction of Armenian state entities during the war of aggression against Azerbaijan.
Victims, including military personnel like Sohbat Shukurov and Samir Yusifov, testified about sustaining injuries due to Armenian military provocations in Kalbajar and Aghdam districts. They recounted incidents of mortar fire and explosions during their service.
Following the victims’ statements, forensic medical examination conclusions were presented, and the next court session was scheduled for April 8. Vardanyan faces multiple charges, including planning aggression, torture, mercenary activity, terrorism, violation of international humanitarian law, and illegal acquisition of firearms.
The trial of Ruben Vardanyan is ongoing, with Judge Zeynal Aghayev presiding. Previously, over 10 victims provided testimony in the case. The court continues to hear evidence and testimonies related to the charges against Vardanyan.
