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In an exclusive interview, Jared Genser, international human rights lawyer to Ruben Vardanyan, sheds light on the ongoing detention of his client and other former Artsakh leaders by the Azerbaijani regime. Vardanyan, a philanthropist and the former State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh, has been unjustly imprisoned for over 15 months in Baku. His case, along with those of 15 other leaders and officials from Artsakh, has drawn international scrutiny.

Speaking to The Armenian Report, Genser shared breaking news, offering hope for a shift in the geopolitical landscape following the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump. Genser revealed that the Trump administration, with key figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, is expected to take a hardline stance on Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev’s actions, particularly the ethnic cleansing and political imprisonment of Artsakh leaders.

Ruben Vardanyan, along with 15 other officials, faces charges ranging from terrorism financing to separatism—accusations Genser unequivocally labels as politically motivated. These trials, held in a military court despite the civilian status of the defendants, lack transparency and impartiality.

Key details about the trials include:

• Closed-Door Proceedings: The hearings have been held behind closed doors, with only Azerbaijani state media allowed to attend, barring international media and independent observers.

• Lack of Legal Rights: Vardanyan has been denied access to his attorney and essential legal documents, such as the 400-page indictment written in Azerbaijani, a language he does not understand.

• Torture Allegations: The detained leaders have endured severe physical and psychological torture, including solitary confinement, denial of food and water, and constant surveillance.

Genser emphasized that these trials are part of a broader campaign to dismantle Artsakh’s leadership, suppress self-determination efforts, and erase Armenian cultural heritage in the region.

According to Genser, the return of Donald Trump to the White House marks a turning point. He expressed confidence in the administration’s willingness to adopt tougher policies toward Azerbaijan, including potential sanctions and diplomatic pressure. Genser highlighted Trump’s prior condemnation of ethnic cleansing in Artsakh, suggesting a continuity of focus under his leadership.

“Aliyev must think twice now,” Genser warned, adding that the new administration will not tolerate the ongoing human rights abuses. He disclosed that preliminary discussions with Washington officials have already begun, signaling a renewed commitment to addressing the plight of Artsakh and its leaders.

While optimistic about U.S. involvement, Genser voiced disappointment in the Armenian government’s limited efforts to advocate for Vardanyan and other detainees. He called for Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to take a more active role in rallying international support.

For the Armenian diaspora, Genser urged unity and action. He outlined specific steps individuals and communities could take, including:

• Writing op-eds and engaging with media to amplify awareness.

• Partnering with human rights organizations to pressure governments and institutions.

• Collaborating with other persecuted communities to foster global solidarity.

“This is a fight for universal human rights,” Genser said. “It’s not just about Armenians; it’s about the fundamental right to dignity and freedom.”

In a poignant message from detention, Ruben Vardanyan called for peace and unity, expressing hope for a future where leaders from all sides could honor the fallen together. “I promise to do everything possible to make it happen during my lifetime,” Vardanyan declared, reflecting his unwavering commitment to reconciliation.

Despite the grim circumstances, Genser remains hopeful. He believes that sustained international advocacy and mounting pressure on Aliyev’s regime will eventually lead to justice. He acknowledged the likelihood of severe sentences for Vardanyan and his co-defendants but noted that such actions often galvanize global outrage, forcing authoritarian leaders to reconsider.

“This is not the end,” Genser concluded. “Ruben’s story is a testament to resilience, and it reminds us all that the fight for justice is never in vain.”