‘I knew what I was doing when I moved to Artsakh’: Ruben Vardanyan sends audio message from prison

Former Artsakh State Minister Ruben Vardanyan, who is in a Baku prison, sent an audio message during a phone call with his family, noting that he is an Armenian, who speaks and thinks in Russian, “a man of the world, who is happily married, loves everyone, who has dedicated himself to self-education, and who lives with faith in God.”

“I feel strong, my health is fine, and I am in complete peace with myself, with my spirit as strong as ever. I want to apologize to my beloved wife, to my family, and to all those dear to me, whom I have caused so much pain and worry with my decision. But each of us has our own unique path, and I have chosen this path for myself. Our fate is predestined by God, but we are the ones who choose the road we take. Even when we refuse to make a choice, then inevitably someone else will make it for us.

I want to emphasize once again that my decision has nothing to do with my personal well-being or my conditions in the detention center. I knew what I was getting into, and I was prepared – and am still prepared – for even worse conditions. I am not a victim, and I do not want to be pitied, because all this was a conscious decision. My demands remain the same. If there is such a desire to judge me – judge me professionally, publicly, openly, in accordance with Azerbaijani laws and all legal procedures, along with everyone else.

I want to tell all my compatriots, my beloved ones: it is not just me and 15 others that are being put on trial – it is all Armenians around the world. And if you do not understand this, it is a great tragedy, because this is not the end of the story, not the end of the conflict – only another stage, unfortunately, for all sides.

I knew what I was doing when I moved to Artsakh. I do not know if I will have another opportunity to speak with you, and so I want to ask for forgiveness from everyone whom I may have ever hurt – through words, actions, or carelessness. Please forgive me! I have never done anything out of malice, envy, pride, or revenge. I never wished to cause anyone pain,” Vardanyan said.