Lawyer: U.S. signals tougher policy on Artsakh detentions

PanARMENIAN.Net - Jared Genser, an international human rights lawyer representing Ruben Vardanyan, has shed new light on the prolonged detention of his client and other former leaders of Artsakh under Azerbaijani custody.

Vardanyan, a philanthropist and the former State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh, has been held in Baku for over 15 months alongside 15 other leaders and officials. Their cases have drawn significant international attention.

In an interview with The Armenian Report, Genser revealed key developments tied to the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump. He shared that the new administration, particularly with figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, is set to adopt a firm stance against Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's regime. This policy shift is expected to address issues including ethnic cleansing and the politically motivated imprisonment of Artsakh leaders.

Vardanyan and the other detainees face charges ranging from financing terrorism to separatism. Genser described these accusations as baseless, asserting they are part of a strategy to dismantle Artsakh's leadership and suppress Armenian self-determination efforts. He criticized the military courts handling these cases for their lack of fairness and transparency.

Genser emphasized that Trump's return to the White House could signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy. He expressed optimism about potential sanctions and diplomatic measures aimed at Aliyev's government. Trump’s previous condemnation of ethnic cleansing in Artsakh suggests a consistent focus on the region under his leadership. “Aliyev must think twice now,” Genser remarked, noting early discussions with Washington on the matter.

While welcoming U.S. engagement, Genser criticized the Armenian government for its passive response to the plight of Vardanyan and other detainees. He urged Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to take a more assertive role in garnering international support.

Addressing the Armenian diaspora, Genser outlined actions to raise awareness and pressure governments. These included writing op-eds, collaborating with human rights groups, and building alliances with other persecuted communities to strengthen global advocacy. “This is a fight for universal human rights,” he affirmed. “It’s about dignity and freedom for all.”

From detention, Vardanyan called for peace and reconciliation, expressing hope that future leaders will unite to honor those who have suffered. “I promise to do everything possible to make it happen during my lifetime,” he said.

Genser remains hopeful that international pressure will eventually compel Aliyev to relent. Acknowledging the likelihood of harsh sentences, he noted that such actions often provoke global backlash, which can force authoritarian regimes to reconsider.

“This is not the end,” Genser stated. “Ruben’s story exemplifies resilience and reminds us that the fight for justice is never futile.”

As Ruben Vardanyan’s next hearing approaches on January 27, The Armenian Report will continue to provide updates on this unfolding human rights crisis.