Eyewitness accounts spotlight violence in Vardanyan trial in Baku PHOTO

The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan resumed today at the Baku Military Court, with victims providing detailed accounts of injuries sustained during attacks allegedly linked to the defendant. Vardanyan faces charges including war crimes, crimes against peace and humanity, terrorism, and financing terrorism.

The session, presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev alongside judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge — Gunel Samadova), ensured that the defendant had access to a Russian-language translator and a state-appointed lawyer for his defence, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Judge Aghayev introduced the court panel, prosecutors, translators, and other participants to the victims and their legal successors attending the trial for the first time. He also explained the rights and responsibilities of the victims under Azerbaijani law.

Several victims recounted the circumstances of their injuries:

Elshan Babayev said he was wounded in the Aghdara district by an enemy-fired anti-tank shell. The attack resulted in the deaths of Tural Amirov and Elchin Salmanov, while Yusif Hasanov sustained injuries.

Elvin Mammadov reported being wounded alongside Kamran Hasanov in the village of Sardarkand, Khojaly district, due to a mortar shell explosion. He added that enemy forces also used sniper rifles and other weapons during the attack.

Khalid Shukurlu testified that he, along with Sadiq Mammadov and Nijat Ahmadzada, was injured in Malibayli village, Khojaly district, by a mortar shell.

Taleh Humbatzada stated that he was injured in Yenikand village, Khojavand district, from an artillery shell explosion, which also wounded Javid Shavgatli.

Fazil Amirli recounted being injured, along with Seyfaddin Jabbarov and Kamran Najafov, due to enemy shelling in Malibayli village, Khojaly district.

Ilgar Gasimov said he and Huseyn Huseynov were wounded by a mine explosion planted by enemy forces in the direction of Khojaly district.

The court also examined documents and other pieces of evidence included in the criminal case files.

The next session of the trial is scheduled for December 5.

By Vafa Guliyeva