Veronika Zonabend, the wife of businessman and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan, who is being held in a Baku prison on what his supporters describe as fabricated charges, has published an open letter expressing gratitude for the support shown to the family.

The letter, issued on behalf of the family, thanks people for their support, compassion and solidarity during a difficult period.

“On May 25, Ruben’s birthday, your messages, prayers, public words of support and acts of kindness became a tremendous source of strength and hope for our family. In moments of uncertainty, the awareness that so many people stand beside us is a great comfort,” Zonabend wrote, according to Sputnik Armenia.

She also expressed gratitude to everyone who has financially supported projects initiated by Ruben Vardanyan, including the construction of the church in Dilijan, UWC Dilijan, and the children’s playground project in Tatev.

“Every contribution, regardless of its size, is a powerful message of care and humanity,” Vardanyan’s wife emphasized.

Concluding the letter, she noted that such solidarity has once again demonstrated that compassion and human dignity stand above all else.

Former Artsakh State Minister Ruben Vardanyan was detained on September 27, 2023, while traveling to Armenia through the Lachin Corridor. On February 17, 2026, a court in Baku sentenced him to 20 years in prison.

Vardanyan turned 58 on May 25.