59 mines cleared in Talish area, witness testifies at Vardanyan trial

The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, charged with multiple counts including crimes against humanity, war crimes, terrorism, and financing terrorism, continued Tuesday at the Baku Military Court.

The hearing was presided over by Judge Zeynal Aghayev. The defendant received interpretation in Russian and was represented by lawyer Avraam Berman.

Vardanyan and his lawyer objected to the composition of the judicial panel, citing previous motions being denied and lack of access to session minutes. Prosecutor Vusal Aliyev dismissed the claims of bias, stating the defense had full access and that procedural rules were followed. The court rejected the motion for lack of evidence.

Testimonies from victims were then heard. Internal Troops serviceman Nurlan Baghirov said an armed attack by Armenian forces resulted in the deaths of 14 servicemen and injuries to several others, including himself.

Other witnesses described similar injuries from grenade blasts and gunfire.

Tajaddin Karimov, a serviceman clearing supply roads near Talish (now part of Aghdara), testified he was injured in a mine blast. He stated that 59 newly planted mines of Armenian origin were discovered and neutralized in the area.

Vagif Babayev, an employee of the Azerbaijan Mine Action Agency (ANAMA), said he was wounded in Zangilan after an armored vehicle hit an anti-tank mine. He stressed that civilians remain the primary victims of landmines.

Forensic medical reports were also presented in court. The next hearing is scheduled for May 6.