The trial of well-known businessman, philanthropist, and former State Minister of Artsakh Ruben Vardanyan continues in Baku’s Military Court under politically motivated charges.
The session was presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev, alongside judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (with reserve judge Gunel Samedova). According to Minval.az , Vardanyan was provided a Russian-language interpreter and a state-funded defense attorney.
Judge Aghayev introduced the so-called “victims” and their legal successors to the court panel, prosecutors, translators, and other participants, explaining their rights and obligations under the law.
These “victims” then gave accounts of injuries allegedly sustained during military operations resulting from Azerbaijani aggression in Artsakh. However, Vardanyan has never taken part in any military activity or been present in Artsakh during wartime.
During the reading of the testimonies, Vardanyan filed a motion requesting access to several case-related documents, including questionnaires. His lawyer Emil Babishov asked the court to grant the request. Prosecutor Vusal Aliyev said the prosecution did not object to disclosing the documents.
Judge Aghayev responded that the defense will be allowed to review the documents during the current week and that the court will ensure the necessary conditions.
The next hearing is scheduled for December 9.
Ruben Vardanyan’s case is being tried separately from the proceedings involving Artsakh’s former political and military leaders and other captives.
