Full Breakdown
Azerbaijan Sentences Former Nagorno-Karabakh Officials in War Crimes Trial
2/5/2026, 9:34:10 PM
Overview of the Sentences
On February 5, 2026, a Baku Military Court sentenced five former officials of the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic, including former president Arayik Harutyunyan, to life imprisonment. The court found them guilty of serious charges, including war crimes, genocide, and terrorism, stemming from their roles during Azerbaijan's conflict with Armenian separatists. Eight additional defendants received prison terms ranging from 15 to 20 years. The trial, which began in January 2025, has been characterized by concerns over its fairness and transparency.
Key Figures Involved
The life sentences were handed down to several prominent figures:
- Arayik Harutyunyan: Former president of Nagorno-Karabakh, sentenced to life imprisonment.
- Levon Mnatsakanyan: Former commander of the Nagorno-Karabakh Defense Army, also sentenced to life.
- Davit Ishkhanyan: Former speaker of the Nagorno-Karabakh parliament, received a life sentence.
- Davit Babayan: Former foreign minister of Nagorno-Karabakh, sentenced to life imprisonment.
- David Manukyan: Former deputy commander of the Nagorno-Karabakh army, received a life sentence.
Two former presidents, Arkady Ghukasyan and Bako Sahakyan, were sentenced to 20 years due to their age, as Azerbaijani law prohibits life sentences for individuals over 65.
Background and Context
The trial follows Azerbaijan's military offensive in September 2023, which resulted in the recapture of Nagorno-Karabakh and the exodus of its ethnic Armenian population, estimated at over 100,000. The Azerbaijani government has since pursued legal actions against former separatist leaders, framing them as responsible for the conflict and its associated crimes. The trial has been described by critics as a "sham," with allegations of predetermined outcomes and lack of due process.
Criticism and Opposition
Human rights organizations and Armenian officials have condemned the trial, arguing that it lacks fairness and transparency. Armenia's Foreign Ministry has called for international legal action to protect the rights of those on trial. Critics assert that the proceedings serve more as a political tool for Azerbaijan to delegitimize the existence of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic rather than a genuine pursuit of justice.
Official Statements & Responses
Azerbaijani state media reported that the court's verdicts were a necessary step in addressing the crimes committed by the former leaders. However, the trial's closed nature and the absence of international observers have raised significant concerns. Armenian officials have stated their intention to pursue all possible avenues to advocate for the rights of the defendants.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Azerbaijani sources assert that the trial was conducted fairly, many international observers and human rights groups have expressed skepticism regarding the judicial process. There are discrepancies in the portrayal of the trial's legitimacy, with some sources labeling it a "show trial" and others framing it as a necessary legal action against war criminals.
What's Next
The case against Ruben Vardanyan, a former state minister of Nagorno-Karabakh, remains ongoing, with separate proceedings expected to continue. The implications of these trials are significant for Armenia-Azerbaijan relations and the broader geopolitical landscape in the South Caucasus.
