Last updated: May 29, 2026
Ruben Vardanyan gave up his Russian citizenship to become State Minister of Artsakh in November 2022, a move widely seen as a commitment to the survival of the Armenian-governed enclave. He was removed from the post in February 2023 under pressure from Azerbaijan before the Lachin corridor blockade reached its peak. After Azerbaijan’s military offensive in September 2023 ended Armenian governance of Nagorno Karabakh and resulted in the ethnic cleansing of its entire Armenian population, Vardanyan was detained by Azerbaijani authorities while attempting to leave the region.
Groong has followed his case closely since his detention, covering the legal proceedings against him in Baku, international calls for his release, and the broader pattern of Artsakh political and civic leaders held as prisoners by Azerbaijan. His case has become a focal point for Armenian diaspora advocacy and for international human rights organizations monitoring the aftermath of the conflict.
Episode 237 | Recorded: March 12, 2023
Episode 237 | Recorded: March 12, 2023
Artsakh Blockade Flash Update with Gev Iskajyan - Ep 233, Mar 2, 2023
Armenian News Network Groong - Mar 2, 2023
Episode 233 | Recorded: March 2, 2023
Artsakh Blockade Flash Update with Gev Iskajyan - Ep 233, Mar 2, 2023
Armenian News Network Groong - Mar 2, 2023
Episode 233 | Recorded: March 2, 2023
Episode 232 | Recorded: February 28, 2023
Episode 232 | Recorded: February 28, 2023
Today weâre going to talk with Anna Abrahamian about two or three topics.
Guest:
Today weâre going to talk with Anna Abrahamian about two or three topics.
Guest:
Artsakh Blockade Flash Update with Gev Iskajyan - Ep 231, Feb 24, 2023
Armenian News Network Groong - Feb 24, 2023
Episode 231 | Recorded: February 24, 2023