Armenia condemns mock trials, torture of prisoners in Baku

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement drawing attention to the urgent issue of Armenian prisoners of war, hostages, and detainees held in Azerbaijan. The statement highlights grave violations in ongoing trials and reports of torture and coercion used against them.

"The publication of videos and photographs from the so-called trials of 23 Armenian prisoners, including those on hunger strike like Ruben Vardanyan, raises deep concern. Information from their lawyers reveals evidence of torture, mistreatment, and deteriorating health conditions," the statement reads.

The ministry cited reports from the UN Committee Against Torture, Human Rights Watch, and other organizations that have documented torture cases involving Armenian prisoners. It also noted Azerbaijan’s refusal to cooperate with international bodies, including the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

"The Armenian government continues to receive reports of prohibited methods used against Armenian prisoners, hostages, and detainees," the statement added.

According to the ministry, the prolonged illegal detention of these individuals constitutes a gross violation of international humanitarian law and contradicts key human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Fourth Geneva Convention.

The statement also accuses Azerbaijani authorities of using these trials to exert political pressure on Armenia and manipulate Azerbaijani public opinion through propaganda. The Foreign Ministry stressed that these actions persist amid ongoing anti-Armenian rhetoric in Azerbaijani media.

The ministry underlined that preparing societies for peace is a key element in resolving conflicts, yet Azerbaijan’s deliberate delays in addressing humanitarian issues directly contradict this objective. This concern has been raised multiple times during negotiations and on international platforms.

Armenia expects Azerbaijan to revise its approach, fostering mutual understanding and rejecting hostility.

"In the absence of a resolution, Armenia cannot remain indifferent. It will continue raising this issue on various platforms, seeking solutions and positive progress," the statement concluded.

Human rights advocate Siranush Sahakyan reported that recent photos of former Artsakh State Minister Ruben Vardanyan show visible injuries on his body. Vardanyan has been on a hunger strike for a week. His health deteriorated sharply during the last court hearing, and images taken at the session revealed injuries on his face. Despite this, the court forced him to attend the hearing. His international lawyer recently provided details about his critical health condition, warning of a serious threat to his life.