Ruben Vardanyan`s family  deeply concerned by Aliyev`s  statements regarding  NKR military-political leadership

ArmInfo. The family of former Artsakh State Minister and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan is deeply concerned by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's statements that the so-called trial of the NKR military-political leadership in Baku is similar to the Nuremberg  trials. Ruben Vardanyan's son, David, in an interview with the French television channel France 24, commenting on Aliyev's statement that the NKR military-political leadership would not be pardoned, said " Well, obviously, we're deeply concerned by the words that have been said. Also, bearing in mind that my mother is of Jewish descent, hearing such strong claims against my father, who is, you know, a humanitarian, and probably the most famous humanitarian in the region. It's important to note, I think, for some of your viewers, as well, that Azerbaijan accuses the Aurora Foundation - which is a humanitarian prize that was organized and cofounded by my father, together with humanitarians, such as the late Elie Wiesel, Vartan Gregorian, Mary Robsinon, Ernesto Zedillo, among others - as a terrorist organization."

According to him, these claims are  very strong and substantive that are not supported by evidence. He also expressed his conviction that the only way to peace between Armenian and Azerbaijani societies is the release of all hostages, their return home, and healing the wounds of the past.

Speaking about Ruben Vardanyan's decision not to appeal the verdict of the so-called Baku court, David noted that this decision was made after a telephone consultation with his father, taking into account the biased and one-sided position of the Azerbaijani court. " Unfortunately, this is very clear - both, you know, the Amnesty International report highlighted that the mere fact that a civilian, who has never held a military position, was tried in a military tribunal, goes against all international norms. The fact that my father's international legal defense hasn't been able to communicate with him once during the two-and-a- half years that he's been in pre-trial detention, and many other complete violations of international and Azeri laws, show that this is not a real trial, but rather a political show, intended for an internal audience and perhaps some external viewers, as well. But this is definitely not a fair and legitimate trial, so my father refused to participate in this," the philanthropist's son added.

At the same time, he emphasized that the Donald Trump administration's genuine and significant efforts to resolve the long-standing conflict deserve praise. "I think it's also very important what President Trump said on August 8th, when he said to Prime Minister Pashinyan that there are 23 - at that time - Armenian Christian hostages being held in Baku that he will help in this regard, as well. Vice President Vance, as well, during his trip to both Armenia and Azerbaijan, raised this issue, as he confirmed, during his visits with both leaders. So, I think the Trump administration also understands that it's very important, in the normalization of relations, to also have the release of the hostages. I am very, very hopeful that Armenia and Azerbaijan can find a true and lasting peace. But, a piece of paper that is signed, when there is no good will between the countries, is just a piece of paper. As I think you know, the famous photo of Neville Chamberlain - if we can go back in history - showed, as well, that a piece of paper is just a piece of paper without true and tangible actions," David expressed his conviction.

When asked whether the Russian side is providing any assistance, given that Vardanyan is a Russian citizen (Ruben Vardanyan renounced his Russian citizenship in 2022 - ed.), David emphasized that his father is actually an Armenian citizen, and all the other Armenian hostages are  Armenian citizens.

" It's a very important point that you raised, that ultimately, it is the fundamental responsibility and obligation of the Armenian government to ensure the timely release of all of these prisoners. And it's not only about my father, but also the other 18 illegally held Armenian hostages, as well as the unaccounted for people. I hope that any of the important players in the region help in resolving this matter, but ultimately, it's the utmost responsibility of the Armenian government to ensure its citizens are returned home safely.," the philanthropist's son emphasized.

David Vardanyan concluded by noting that despite all the difficulties, trials, and conditions his father has faced over the past 860 days, he remains very optimistic. He always tells his family not to lose hope and to remain true to their principles. " Tat's what he's doing, despite all the pressure that he has faced and is facing to give up on his belief that Armenia and Azerbaijan must coexist in a truly lasting peace that's based on mutual respect, he still sticks to his principles, and he urges us all not to give into fear, and to still stand up for what's right, despite everything that is happening, no matter how difficult it is. He remains hopeful, and he doesn't hold any anger toward anyone, and it's his sincere hope that Armenia and Azerbaijan do find a way to coexist together, as neighbors," David concluded.