Slovak MEP Miriam Lexmann has urged the European Union to impose sanctions on Azerbaijani prosecutors and judges involved in the trials of Armenian detainees held in Baku. She made this statement during a discussion in the European Parliament titled "Azerbaijan’s illegal detentions and sham trials of Armenian hostages, including top political representatives of Nagorno-Karabakh."

Lexmann emphasized that over 20 political prisoners held in Baku are subjected to inhumane conditions, while the fabricated trials against them could result in life sentences, 1lurer.am reports.

"This is the true face of Aliyev’s regime, which oppresses its own citizens and disregards international commitments. While the EU pursues a strategic partnership, Baku’s regime continues to threaten its neighbors and undermine regional peace efforts," Lexmann stated.

She stressed that in the current geopolitical climate, the EU must stand by its values, particularly in its immediate neighborhood.

"Instead, we appease the oppressor and reward Aliyev’s actions by expanding trade. Haven’t we learned our lesson? It is time to stop dreaming of a strategic partnership, face reality, and act in accordance with our values and principles. We must take urgent steps, address complaints, highlight blatant human rights violations, and ensure the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages," the MEP declared.

Lexmann specifically called for sanctions against Azerbaijani prosecutors and judges responsible for the trials of Armenians held in Baku.

"We must ensure that any further cooperation with Azerbaijan is conditioned on the release of all detainees and Baku’s commitment to a peace agreement," she concluded.