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.
Artsakh Blockade Flash Update with Gev Iskajyan - Ep 205, Jan 15, 2023
Armenian News Network Groong - Jan 15, 2023
Episode 205 | Recorded: January 15, 2023
Episode 181 | Recorded: December 6, 2022
Episode 181 | Recorded: December 6, 2022
Episode 175 | Recorded: November 8, 2022
Episode 175 | Recorded: November 8, 2022
ANN/Groong Week in Review - January 23, 2022
Topics:
Guests:
Hosts:
Episode 114 | Recorded: Sunday, January 25, 2022
ANN/Groong Week in Review - January 23, 2022
Topics:
Guests:
Hosts:
Episode 114 | Recorded: Sunday, January 25, 2022