'If the Russian military in Karabakh wanted to, they would take him out of there'

In a significant development on September 27, Ruben Vardanyan, the "former minister of State of the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic," was apprehended at the Lachin border checkpoint. Azerbaijani authorities have detained him on suspicion of financing terrorism and other serious offenses. Vardanyan's response to these allegations remains uncertain, but during his detention, his wife, Veronica Zonabend, asserted that «he was attempting to leave Artsakh, along with thousands of other Armenians, amid Azerbaijani occupation».

Ruben Vardanyan, a billionaire, made headlines when he arrived in Karabakh from Moscow in November 2022, renouncing his Russian citizenship and obtaining Armenian citizenship. While he claimed his move was driven by a desire to assist the local population, various speculations surrounded his decision. Some suggested he aimed to evade sanctions, while others believed he might have been dispatched by the Russian government to replace Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

At a meeting with the European Union's Special Envoy for the Eastern Partnership Dirk Schubel, President Ilham Aliyev expressed unwillingness to enter into negotiations with the Armenians of Karabakh, but not with such persons as Vardanyan, who, as he believes, was sent to Karabakh from Moscow with a clear agenda.

In response, Vardanyan welcomed Aliyev's desire for a direct dialogue with Artsakh, emphasizing the importance of recognizing influential figures with extensive contacts and experience in the region.

Vardanyan's arrest has ignited debates about its implications and potential repercussions. Some speculate that Russia may intervene to secure his release, while others argue that such an arrest could not have transpired without Russia's consent.

Elman Nasirov, a member of the Milli Majlis, emphasized that Vardanyan played a significant role in exacerbating the situation in Karabakh. Given his renunciation of Russian citizenship, Nasirov contended that there is no legal basis for transferring him to Russia. Instead, investigative actions will be initiated, and his actions in Karabakh will be thoroughly evaluated, potentially resulting in severe legal consequences.

Nasirov also asserted that Vardanyan's arrest would not impede dialogue between the central authorities of Azerbaijan and the Armenian community in Karabakh. He emphasized that Azerbaijan is only engaging with individuals from the Armenian community who have no connection to separatism and are willing to accept Azerbaijani citizenship.

Political commentator Arastun Orujlu held a similar point of view, telling Radio Azadlig that Vardanyan was not an official, and therefore his arrest should not affect the ongoing negotiations. He noted that the future of these negotiations hinges on instructions from the Russian military and government, which maintain control over the region.

Regarding Vardanyan's potential extradition to Russia, experts believe it is a plausible scenario. They suggest that if the Russian military in Karabakh desired it, they could facilitate his transfer. This move would likely position Vardanyan as a hero and potentially elevate him to lead the separatist organization.