Pashinyan Could Have Fatal Consequences for Both Our Countrymen and Our State

Armenian studies expert Tatevik Hayrapetyan writes: “The artificial nature of the ‘trials’ against our compatriots in Baku becomes evident even from the analysis of the actions of the Azerbaijani side. In this regard, it is noteworthy that during the previous ‘trial,’ they had published material claiming that someone had allegedly testified about a connection between Khojalu and Ruben Vardanyan; this absurd material was later denied by Azerbaijani media itself.

Now it is becoming clear that the charges brought against Vardanyan are not even being translated and presented to him, or they provided a translator who cites Belarusian law instead of Azerbaijani legislation in places. In fact, they cannot provide a proper translator, nor share accurate information; no international journalist can follow what is happening in the courtroom.

This closed and absurd process also indicates that Baku has nothing in hand; there is simply a goal to direct all of this against Armenia, which was also recorded in the so-called prosecutor’s ‘accusatory conclusion.’ For example, Vardanyan is accused of having ‘joined and led a criminal organization that operated to commit serious crimes with the support of Armenia and its armed forces in waging an aggressive war against Azerbaijan.’

In this context, the withdrawal of claims from international legal instances, which Pashinyan has expressed willingness to do, could have fatal consequences for both our compatriots and our state.”