On July 1, the ongoing trial of former State Minister of Artsakh Ruben Vardanyan resumed in Baku’s military court, continuing what observers describe as a judicial farce.

Judge Zeynal Agayev presided over the hearing. According to APA, the defendant has been provided with a Russian-language interpreter and a lawyer of his choice.

Defense attorney Abraham Berman noted that on June 23, the panel of judges allowed access to transcripts from the February 13 and 17 hearings, which were subsequently provided. He added that he and Vardanyan now wish to review the ruling from the preparatory hearing and requested access to the records of motions submitted on those dates.

Judge Agayev stated that the court “has so far ensured access to all necessary documents and remains ready to continue doing so.”

The court then heard statements from individuals labeled as “victims,” who spoke about their involvement in wartime actions and injuries sustained.

The session also included presentations of the results of forensic medical examinations conducted on these “victims.”

The next hearing is scheduled for July 8.

U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz stated that during a conversation with Hikmet Hajiyev, Advisor to the President of Azerbaijan, he urged the release of detainees and the finalization of a peace treaty with Armenia.

Ruben Vardanyan’s lawyer, Jared Genser, called on Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan to carefully consider statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.