Today, during the ongoing session at the Baku Military Court, a video was shown featuring a 2016 interview given by the accused David Ishkhanyan to the television of the former puppet regime.

Axar.az reports in the video material, David Ishkhanyan answers the journalist’s questions and talks about the activities of the “Dashnaktsutyun” supporters in Azerbaijani territories:

“Dashnaktsutyun came to Karabakh in 1990–1991, focusing mainly on the front-line areas. Their efforts were concentrated there. “Dashnaktsutyun” operated in Karabakh not only with weapons but also through financial and human resources. Organization was another key aspect of their work. Dashnaktsutyun acted as a shield for us. It’s no coincidence that the party played a significant role in army building and other areas from 1990–1991 until 1994. During that time, Dashnak representatives, fighters, and units were being formed—and I was one of them.”

Answering the TV host’s question about the unification of the former puppet entity established in Azerbaijani territories with Armenia, D. Ishkhanyan said:

“My personal opinion is that the right path is ultimately the unification of Karabakh with Armenia. This should be our main and final outcome. We are currently in a transitional period. For me, Karabakh and historic Armenia are one and the same—I see them together.”

Answering the prosecution's questions in court about his interview, D. Ishkhanyan denied the statements in the video material where he said that “Dashnaktsutyun” provided military support to the former puppet regime.

The trial continues for citizens of the Republic of Armenia accused of numerous crimes committed as a result of Armenia’s military aggression, including crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, preparation and waging of an aggressive war, genocide, violations of the laws and customs of war, as well as terrorism, financing of terrorism, forcible seizure and retention of power, and many other offenses.