“President Ilham Aliyev could initiate a series of reforms, bringing his country closer to international human rights standards. He could begin by heeding to international calls to release Armenian political prisoners currently being illegally detained, the most well-known being prominent businessman and humanitarian Ruben Vardanyan. President Aliyev would earn the respect and goodwill of the international community, and help Azerbaijan gain a greater status on the world stage, a goal it is desperate to reach.”
“We need to do everything to get him [Ruben] out [of the Baku prison]. He needs to be in Armenia. The currently captive presidents of Artsakh, they are citizens of Armenia. They, too, need to be in Armenia. It is an enormous tragedy for these people and their families. I wish their families and children the strength to endure and survive all that is happening.”
“Ruben Vardanyan is a powerful personality on an international level. He has helped the entire world. He came [to Nagorno-Karabakh] only with intentions to help, because the people of Karabakh had suffered a great deal.”
«ARMENIA NEEDS HELP. Just learned that my friend Ruben Vartanian is a prisoner in Azerbaijan. He had switched career from derivatives trader/philanthropist to leader of the Artzakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). He is not even treated as a prisoner of war, but as a “terrorist”».
“I want to address the state of Azerbaijan. The leaders of the Republic of Artsakh — Bako Sahakyan, Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkady Ghukasyan, Ruben Vardanyan — are in Azerbaijani prisons. But we haven’t seen them at all late-ly. I would like to see (not only me, but the entire Armenian people) some new footage showing the faces of Bako Sahakyan, Arkady Ghukasyan, Arayik Harutyunyan, Levon Mnatsakanyan, and Ruben Vardanyan, how they live, how they are treated.”
“When Ruben Vardanyan came to Artsakh, we did not understand at first. Artsakh already had problems with accepting and understanding people after numerous betrayals. Even when he started talking about drastic changes and big plans, it was still unclear. But after a short time Ruben Vardanyan man-aged to show that he was one of us. Once, when we talked with him: me not as an MP and he not as a state minister, but instead me as a native of Yerevan and he as a non-native of Artsakh, and we still shared our feelings for the Motherland.
I said that sometimes I catch myself thinking that such feelings for Artsakh are abnormal, that I don’t know if it is love or concern. The land of Artsakh, its water, everything, even the dust rising on the side of the road — this degree of love is abnormal. He also spoke about his feelings.
He said that before moving to Artsakh, he always thought that if one day one of his children asked him why he was Armenian — what would he answer? And I realized that the feelings I experienced were very similar to his. And that many people feel the same. In other words, each of us has a struggle with self-fulfillment amid this chaotic situation created by the authorities. And yes, many people came to Artsakh to live and create, to save Artsakh in order to confirm their right to be worthy of this land.
Ruben Vardanyan is one of them. In a very short time, he showed that feelings for the Motherland are not in a comfortable living, not in luxury, feelings for the Motherland are in sharing its pain and suffering. This is the purpose of his life. He even bought a house in the village of Kolatak and lived there. He com-muted to Stepanakert every day until the fuel problem worsened. During this time, he implemented many programs to make people’s life easier under siege.”
“The nine months of the blockade were the most important indicator, which, like a bare nerve, showed who is who. Even today I can think of 100 people ready to devote the rest of their lives to the mission of restoring Armenia and reviving the Armenian world.
Justice demands that this row begin with the “prison twin cities” — Ruben Vardanyan (Baku), Armen Ashotyan (Yerevan). It’s time to ask ourselves what our state is about, how we see it, and what we expect from ourselves. We need to continue the list of missionaries’ names — let others add more names, and we must keep moving forward.”
“The tragedy continues to unfold in Armenia. Azerbaijan is guilty of arbitrarily detaining former Artsakh officials and destroying the Armenian heritage on this territory.
Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, as well as with the 100,000 refugees and political prisoners held by Azerbaijan. On December 10, in cele-bration of the International Human Rights Day, I will grant honorary citizen-ship of Paris to the representatives of Artsakh Armenians.
Paris also calls for the immediate release of all Armenian prisoners held by Azerbaijan.”
“I’m still trying to understand why numerous Armenian prisoners are being held in Azerbaijan. The European Union demands that we start peace negotia-tions by the end of this year, but how can peace be established when people are still being illegally held in Azerbaijan, including Ruben Vardanyan, David Babayan, David Manukyan, David Ishkhanyan, Levon Mnatsakanyan, former presidents Arkady Ghukasyan, Arayik Harutyunyan, Bako Sahakyan…
My question is addressed to the EU and other organizations that make useless demands without studying all the nuances, ignoring the illegal seizure of Arme-nian lands and detention of Armenians by Azerbaijanis. To start negotiations, first, begin with the release of all captured Armenians.”
“A well-known philanthropist who devoted his life to humanitarian and cul-tural projects, former state minister of Artsakh Ruben Vardanyan, was de-tained exactly one month ago.
The Armenian Assembly condemns the illegal abduction of Ruben Vardanyan by Azerbaijan at an illegal checkpoint in the Lachin corridor on September 27.
There charges faced are absurd and the prominent philanthropist is now look-ing at up to 14 years in prison.
Ruben Vardanyan’s humanitarian contributions are invaluable for the Armeni-an and international community.
He abandoned his everyday life and travelled to Artsakh to facilitate its devel-opment and share all hardships of the blockade and war with residents of the republic. Ruben Vardanyan was determined to help find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
We believe that justice will prevail, that Ruben Vardanyan will be free and re-turn to his family soon!”
“Ruben, we remember you. At present, my main goal is assisting in the release of Ruben Vardanyan and other political prisoners in Azerbaijan.”
“Over the past 23 years, together with Ruben, we have implemented dozens of humanitarian and charitable projects in Armenia. Last fall Ruben moved to Artsakh to help residents regain their dignity and resist the pressure they had been under. He served as state minister for three months, and remained in Artsakh even after leaving this post to implement humanitarian projects and better help the people. I believe Ruben is a symbol of all Armenians. The sole purpose of his arrest, and his charges, is to subject 10 million Armenians around the world to psychological torture. I hope that international players will not stand back nor encourage this injustice and impunity. We need to oppose it now.”
“Telegram channels have already reported about the joint visit of Human Rights Defender of Armenia, Anahit Manasyan, and Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Dunja Mijatović, to the locations of temporary residence for forced migrants from Nagorno-Karabakh.
Mijatović is meeting with officials, international organizations and civil society representatives and intends to make a statement on the visit results.
I join the experts in wondering whether the name of Ruben Vardanyan detained by Azerbaijani forces will be included in this statement. He is currently under arrest in Baku along with other prisoners.
The Azerbaijani authorities led by Ilham Aliyev are candid regarding their attitude to the issue — for instance, take a recent video with the president, where he tramples on the flag of the unrecognized republic.
One cannot count on Pashinyan to help, so only Russia can accelerate Vardanyan’s release. The Russian Federation should not abandon the person whose humanitarian and educational projects continue to work despite his detention. For example, the Skolkovo business school, whose graduates have already come up with a letter in support of Vardanyan.”
“I believe Vardanyan can play a significant role in the region’s events. While another full-scale war is brewing in the Middle East, Karabakh is gradually fading into the background.
At first glance, everything has calmed down: Azerbaijan is starting to establish a new life in the region; it has launched restoration work, as well as construction of housing and infrastructure. No ethnic cleansing reports have been confirmed: Armenians willing to leave are free to go, they don’t have to run barefoot, without luggage under whizzing bullets like Azerbaijanis in the 1990s.
That being said, Ruben Vardanyan is still in a Baku prison. Having given the situation some thought, I believe that Baku has a trump card capable of solving several problems at once — granting pardon to Vardanyan.
Firstly, Ruben Vardanyan is not a killing squad member of the First Karabakh War. As loud as it may sound, he is a world-renowned businessman and philanthropist with many charitable projects, who, on the wave of idealistic patriotism, rushed to help his people. Given his influence, Vardanyan can be quite effectively exchanged for, let’s say, actual murderers deserving punishment.
Secondly, the pardon destroys the narrative built by Baku’s enemies about “the cruel and barbaric country of Azerbaijan, punishing everyone it can reach” — there is guilt, there is punishment for the most vicious criminals, but there is also generosity for those who cannot be called murderers or genocide architects. Due to his prominence, Vardanyan’s pardon would have a powerful effect in the global media, forcing many people to rethink the imposed assessments of the situation.
Finally, the pardon would once again show who is working toward signing a peace treaty and being constructive, and who is after retaining power through insane diplomatic somersaults. It is another argument for Western friends to put pressure on Nikol Pashinyan and move closer to signing a peace treaty — which also would benefit other countries of the region and Russia (for which it is vital to start a new chapter of relations with the South Caucasus states when both Azerbaijan and Armenia are considered allies).
Pardoning Ruben Vardanyan would help reach several more goals than a prison sentence — both in terms of politics, reputation and diplomacy. In my opinion, this is the right decision.”
“A human rights activist from the Council of Europe is making a big tour of the far region. Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatović wheels around Armenia as a VIP guest. In May, she already claimed human rights violations in Baku. Will her position change now that the local security forces are holding the former leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh captive? How will Dunja react to the merciful cup of tea that the detainees receive according to Ilham Aliyev?
What is even more interesting is Mijatović’s personal attitude to the fact that prominent philanthropist and public figure Ruben Vardanyan, who is only guilty of wanting to support the Armenians of Karabakh and moving there amid the military conflict, is languishing in a dungeon of Baku.
Does Dunja know about his detention? Most likely, yes. Vardanyan’s personality is too big for the prison bars opening. Ruben’s projects have helped thousands of people and brought educational innovations in Russia and Armenia to a new level. But knowing something doesn’t mean you can ask awkward questions. Especially when the European Union takes part in settling the conflict.
Apparently, Russia will still have to deal with Vardanyan’s detention. At least, the public is already actively discussing this insane and illegal arrest.”
“From a human point of view, it is very inspiring when a wealthy and successful businessman leaves Moscow for a war zone.
Nagorno-Karabakh was such a zone when Ruben Vardyanan, known for his Troika Dialog company, moved there a few years ago. He did not just travel there but actually headed into Nagorno-Karabakh for a short time, acting as its state minister.
Publicly declaring his intention to go to Nagorno-Karabakh in September of last year, Ruben Vardanyan noted that he was doing it not for political reasons but with a humanitarian mission. “Residents of the republic have survived two wars and lost their relatives and friends in the fight for independence. They feel abandoned,” he emphasized, expressing gratitude to Russia for its presence in the region. Once Nagorno-Karabakh was liquidated and occupied by Azerbaijani troops, he was arrested.
“Will the man who called himself the prime minister of Karabakh dare to threaten us today?” the president of Azerbaijan rhetorically asked, adding that Vardanyan and other detained NKR leaders were served tea in a remand prison.
When Ruben Vardanyan was allowed to call home from the Azerbaijani prison, he only said that his condition was normal. The actual situation is unknown at the moment — Azerbaijan has no institutions similar to Russian public oversight committees (which can check the detention conditions of any prisoner). Neither the Red Cross nor any other international organizations have inspected the prison conditions yet.
Unfortunately, Ruben Vardanyan is not formally associated with Russia anymore. In last year’s interview to Forbes magazine, he stated that he had obtained an Armenian passport and renounced Russian citizenship, “I want to have complete freedom of action, including from a moral standpoint. After all, Artsakh is a territory that still has no full-fledged definite status, and I don’t want to set Russia up in this conflict.”
His motivation (he believes that “After the 2020 war, we, Armenians of the world, must be together with Artsakh”) was absolutely clear. It is only logical that protecting the rights of Armenian citizens (including Ruben Vardanyan) must be among the Armenian authorities’ top priorities. The release of people who had no part in military operations but worked in the Nagorno-Karabakh government, can and should be included in the terms of peace agreements between Armenia and Azerbaijan. This endeavor could be supported by the influential Armenian diaspora in many countries, which for years has been talking about Nagorno-Karabakh as a symbol for the entire Armenian people. Probably, the Armenian diaspora in Russia could also be more active in defending one of its prominent representatives. We should not forget that thousands of people, active members of Russian civil society, have passed through Vardanyan’s projects — the Skolkovo business school, Aurora social projects and others. Their voices could facilitate the philanthropist’s release despite his renunciation of Russian citizenship.”
“In light of Pashinyan’s recent statements, the quadrilateral meeting with the participation of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the leaders of Turkey, Azerbaijan and Armenia may be postponed indefinitely.
The fate of the Karabakh prisoners, who are still being held in Azerbaijan, could have been decided during the meeting. One of the people arrested by the Azerbaijani forces is our former citizen Ruben Vardanyan, a social entrepreneur and philanthropist whose humanitarian projects continue to work in Russia.
Let me remind you of a few. First and foremost, we have the Philin Philgood company, which provides comprehensive services to charitable foundations and other NPOs: it offers legal and accounting support, selects personnel, creates IT solutions. Over the nine years since its creation, Philin has helped more than a hundred Russian NPOs.
Also, we cannot ignore Vardanyan’s contribution to educational development. He co-founded the Scholae Mundi charity foundation, served on the board of trustees of MSU and RANEPA, created the international college UWC Dilijan in Dilijan, where high school students from many countries, including Russia, study.
Even after leaving for Nagorno-Karabakh, Ruben Vardanyan maintained close contact with colleagues and like-minded people who remained in Russia. I think eventually he will be released. Perhaps an exchange will take place. I am sure that releasing the philanthropist after the negotiations will benefit Russia and reinforce our influence as architects of peace.”
“Amid the recent events in the world, the tragedy of the former Nagorno-Karabakh leaders arrested by Azerbaijan and our compatriot, Ruben Vardanyan, in particular are out of the limelight.
Vardanyan is no stranger to Russian charity. For many years, he helped Doctor Liza’s Foundation, responding, among other things, to emergency requests for helping homeless people. I know he helped both the Khabenskiy’s Foundation and Podari Zhizn. Yet, unlike many, he never publicly showed off his charity. Actually, not many philanthropists help the homeless: this is a very stigmatized area. Vardanyan really sympathized with it all. I know that recently he called his family, saying that everything was fine, and he asked his relatives to continue helping those in need, including refugees.
Overall, I’ve been closely watching how Vardanyan gave up everything and left to help his native Karabakh. Simply because a person willing to risk everything, his life included, and to give up such things as daily comfort, security, confidence in his future for the sake of an idea already demands respect. And in line with the laws of universal justice, people who provide assistance to those in need should get some good in return.
I sincerely do not understand why Vardanyan has to be in prison. In theory, his fate should have drawn at least the Armenian authorities’ attention, but they are still silent. I think that Russia should also get involved in his future: apparently, the situation cannot be resolved without it. I sincerely hope that this resolution will come.”
“Ilya Ananyev, expert in political and regional communications and author of the Telegram channel Sprosite Ananyeva (“Ask Ananyev”), exclusively for Moskovskaya Prachechnaya.
I am a little surprised by Russia’s reaction to the arrest and imprisonment of Ruben Vardanyan. The Kremlin’s reaction is more or less clear: it’s big politics, caution is required when getting involved in another conflict. Perhaps there is some secret empathy toward their “ambassador of Artsakh” and maybe even undisclosed negotiations (I believe it’s possible) with Azerbaijan on releasing the well-known philanthropist and businessman.
But there is another Russia — Russian Armenians, Gazprom-Media, businesses, small and medium entrepreneurs who had received his business angel investments en masse, as well as Skolkovo and its education programs graduates.
If anyone has ever stepped out of their comfort zone, it was Vardanyan. This is exactly the behavior coaches encourage among all successful and accomplished people as they make their first career steps.
Recently, I’ve been truly happy to hear the only voice in the silence around the Artsakh crisis from the Skolkovo School of Management and Andrei Sharonov’s team. They came up with a careful appeal in defense of Ruben Vardanyan, which was nevertheless vital both for the school’s trustee and the school itself. But it drowned in the blockade just like Artsakh.
Hey, everyone from Comedy, the most successful project made in Armenia, and Gazprom-Media, why are you so quiet? Why aren’t there any creative ideas on the “Give Ruben Back” case? So many other parties could easily join the challenge as well.
Look, we ripped the “gun baron” Viktor Bout out of the United States’ grasp and trumpeted that story all over the country, yet we leave the humanitarian and philanthropist who gives Russia the most precious things — brains and education — to smolder in the stench of a prison cell. Isn’t there something wrong with this scale of justice?
“Saving Private Vardanyan” is a strong state’s mission. Kudos to Andrey Sharonov and his small but brave — within the limits of Russian domestic politics — team. They don’t leave their own behind.”
“There is another very important topic. I’m talking about the unresolved fate of Nagorno-Karabakh residents recently detained by Azerbaijan.
As you know, Ruben Vardanyan, a prominent public figure and philanthropist, was among those arrested. People may bring up his citizenship, but let me remind you that in the recent years, he has devoted himself to humanitarian projects that continued working in Russia even after Vardanyan’s detention.
He sponsored Konstantin Khabenskiy’s Foundation, Podari Zhizn and Doctor Liza’s Foundation.
Last fall, Vardanyan moved to Karabakh. Some people spoke about his political ambitions, yet in the end, he stayed there, sacrificing himself for the population’s sake.
He wanted to unite the divided parts of the nation through social projects and launched several initiatives in the unrecognized republic to support its residents.
Alas, as long as the Karabakh people are held in Baku prisons, Aliyev’s claims do not inspire optimism. Will they be left to fend for themselves? Or will Russia interfere?”
“I am deeply saddened and troubled to hear about Ruben Vardanyan’s abduction and illegal arrest by Azerbaijani forces in Artsakh.
I have known Ruben for many years, and I have always been impressed by his intelligence, compassion, dedication, and commitment to Armenia, his family and friends, and all the initiatives he has launched or taken a role in.
Ruben, someone I consider a friend, is a devoted philanthropist, visionary leader and investor who has dedicated his life to the betterment of #Armenia and #Artsakh. His fierce and passionate advocacy for his people is undeniable, while some may have differing views on his methods.
He has made significant contributions to the Armenian community around the globe, and his work in Artsakh has had a great impact. He has helped develop the region’s economy and infrastructure and has played a vital role in promoting peace and reconciliation.
His abduction and arrest clearly violate international law, and they send a chilling message to the Armenian people.
I urge the international community to lend support to promote the fair treatment of the Armenian people and to seek a peaceful resolution in Artsakh. This is no longer about politics. It is about human rights.
I stand together with Ruben and his family during this difficult time.
In addition to supporting #RubenVardanyan, let’s take this opportunity to raise awareness about Artsakh ‘s ongoing challenges.
Since the end of the 2020 war, Armenians have suffered. We have lost our homes, livelihoods, and loved ones. Our people have been displaced, and our land has been destroyed. Whether it be today or the next, we must ensure justice is served. We will raise our voices and rise up to support all Armenians as we work toward rebuilding our lives and forging a brighter future.
Have no doubt.”
“In 2010, I enrolled at Skolkovo, a slightly naive young entrepreneur.
Then I was lucky to start working with Ruben Vardanyan, he became my mentor. After only a few meetings with him, I managed to completely change my worldview, breaking through the glass ceiling I had at the time.
One of the first thoughts that struck me was about the planning horizon. At that time, Lee Kuan Yew was visiting us at Skolkovo with his Singapore development horizon for the future 60 years. Ruben told us that he also planned his actions for 20+ years and explained how he did it.
It was a powerful insight for me. I thought about it and realized that my horizon was not quite defined. More precisely, the dream and long-term goals were seemingly there, but their decomposition along the journey was clearly inadequate.
Thanks to our meetings with Ruben, I realized what partnership is in business and life. And what power lies in it. After that, my second stage of the entrepreneurial path began; it was all about partnership interactions. I saw how powerful it was in life — surrounding yourself with strong people.
For me, Ruben Vardanyan is a person who thinks in four dimensions. For decades to come.
He told us about the circle of trust, about the environment, about the 21st century trend — the community — back when it was not a hot topic, and no one was engaged in communities.
Thanks to Ruben, Atlanty appeared, as well as the Skolkovo business school, the Aurora humanitarian initiative and the Dilijan school. And a huge number of other very cool karmic projects that make our world a better place.
According to Ruben, the most important thing in determining your own strength is how many people will support you in an hour of need.
And I’m sure that now is the time for us to support him so that he returns home to his family as soon as possible and continues to make our world better.
I consider this my small contribution to his great contribution to us!”
#freeRubenVardanyan #вподдержкуРубенаВарданяна #freeRuben
“‘You either work for someone else’s mission or go after your own.’
I here quote Ruben Vardanyan, a phrase he casually passed to me while walking one of Skolkovo’s many corridors. It guided my path for the rest of my life.
I’ve been an entrepreneur for 10 years. His statement was moral permission to become a bit more like Ruben.
I came to the Skolkovo business school as an ambitious young lady in my early 20s and graduated as a young entrepreneur with ambitions of a completely different kind. From ‘successful success’ I desired to create more for the world than for my personal aspirations and dreams.
Once I interviewed Ruben for a book dedicated to the 20th anniversary of Troika Dialog:
‘Why did you do all this? Well, all of it. From the interview about the dream to the distribution of dividends between partners and incredible festivals with Polunin, when no one else was doing such things.’
‘We had to.’
His answers were extremely short. It was enough for a book, but not enough for a media interview. But he never liked ostentation and empty bluster.
Ruben Karlenovich has an amazing trait: he grants you a sense of self-importance. You don’t feel small next to him, although he is many times greater: in terms of thoughts, scale, actions. With him, you feel inspired. And you start acting. Surprisingly, his scale does not devastate but inspires.
He is a godfather to maybe 600 children in Nagorno-Karabakh families. And to probably hundreds of businesses in entrepreneurs’ environment. My business is one of them.
A teacher, mentor, elder, founding father, an impeccable example of service. Someday his name will be like Mother Teresa in business: a synonym for a way of thinking and acting, leadership of the spirit.
We were all lucky to observe his journey. You want to be with him as often as possible in order to absorb his essence and become a little bit like Ruben yourself, although nobody can become just like him, of course.
Like thousands of other entrepreneurs he inspired to choose their own mission, I pray that his example is possible. Available. Free.
I want to see more stories about him in the future.
There should be more books, more interviews and projects.
Freedom to Ruben Vardanyan. Freedom to give freedom to others.
Freedom to inspire other leaders by example.”
“When I worked at Troika Dialog, Ruben constantly used to talk about his dream — for Troika not only to have offices in Moscow, London and New York, but also branches all over the country. At that time, Troika had only five branches.
Then Ruben Karlenovich suggested that I move from Samara to Moscow in order to expand and strengthen the large federal chain. And we managed to do so — he always believed we could.
Every time we met, I noticed his deep penetrating gaze, his amazing voice timbre, it was fascinating… He was able to inspire like no one else. It was always a pleasure working with him. He empowered you to do your job better than you could in other companies.
Even after I started my own business, Ruben with genuine interest continued to ask what I was doing, how I was doing, whether everything was OK.
Thanks to working at Troika under Ruben’s leadership, I considered it essential to introduce such principles as official salaries, annual reviews with employees and the importance of corporate culture in my company.
Ruben Vardanyan is still my teacher.”
“Once I asked Ruben Vardanyan why he worked 18 hours a day and launched non-profit projects again and again.
‘To make the world a little better,’ Ruben said.
I’ve heard this phrase from different people, but after working with Ruben for more than five years, I saw that he really meant it.
He gives it his all, completely, unreservedly.
I don’t know anyone who gives so much without asking for anything in return.
He always laughed at the various Forbes lists, they had no meaning to him.
But I’m sure that he is already at the top of the list when it comes to people who have made great contributions to Russia, Armenia and the world.
The Skolkovo business school, Aurora humanitarian initiative, Dilijan school, Tatev, Atlanty business club and over 50 other karmic projects that make our world a better place.
Ruben joined Atlanty at a very difficult time and got moving right away.
In five years we’ve managed to create one of the strongest business communities in Russia, bringing together 900+ entrepreneurs and top managers.
Thousands of solved requests, hundreds of events and the rapid growth of Atlanty’s businesses are just a small fraction of our results.
But most importantly, Ruben has always emphasized increasing the radius of trust between the members.
And I believe that we have managed to create a community where interaction between the residents is based on just that — trust.
Atlanty and I hope that Ruben will be home with his family soon.
We hope he will continue to make our world better, because now it is more important than ever.
Right now, when I don’t know who to ask for help, I truly believe in the power of the universe and victory of the good.”
“I don’t understand Pashinyan’s actions at all. Armenians seized by Azerbaijanis in Nagorno-Karabakh — Pashinyan’s blood brothers — languish in Baku dungeons. One of them is the prominent philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan, who has done so much for both Russia and Armenia. Pashinyan had the European Parliament pulpit at his disposal. Why, when exuding hatred toward Russia and indulging in speculations about the future cooperation with the EU, did Pashinyan not even attempt to raise the issue of the immediate release of his country’s citizens? And if the European Parliament wanted to, it could put serious pressure on Baku.”
“As the topic of relocated people is widely discussed, I often — and with sadness — think about a completely different ‘relocant,’ Ruben Vardanyan.
A man who actually stuck his head into the inferno out of patriotism. He acted like a true patriot, not remotely (as you probably know, he was born in Yerevan). If the “Russian oligarchs” behaved like this instead of scuttling along the Moscow — London — Tel Aviv — Moscow route like rats, they would be seen in a different light. And for this patriotic act, for staying with his people to the end, Vardanyan is paying the price — he “drinks tea in jail,” as the Azerbaijani side puts it.
That being said, I’m not quite sure what the accusations are. He did not fight with Azerbaijan, did not command any armies, he wasn’t at the root of the movement. He was a “separatist”, probably just like any other Armenian, except maybe Pashinyan. He wasn’t involved in the events from the 90s, which Azerbaijanis recall with pain.
Vardanyan came to Karabakh after the 2020 war with one goal in mind — to somehow improve the people’s lives in terms of economics and infrastructure. He was a state minister for three months, and it would be quite odd to take revenge for this alone. Of course, maybe they just expect a “ransom” from him, but even this is ludicrous for the early 21st century.
Formally, one would think that Russia doesn’t need to stand up for Vardanyan. He renounced his Russian citizenship. However, his move was a gesture of loyalty to Russia — if a Russian citizen had taken an official post in the Artsakh government, this would have been a real issue. So renouncing citizenship was actually a very loyal act toward Russia.
Since the Karabakh situation was clearly played “with four hands,” perhaps this is the real reason why both Armenian and Azerbaijani authorities are clearly in no hurry to push for his release.
I don’t know how much we can do now, even at the highest level. But we must do something. We must not forget Vardanyan. Now is the situation to do good without harming anyone.”
“Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Putin and Aliyev did not discuss the situation around Ruben Vardanyan during the open part of the CIS summit. The key phrase here is “the open part,” that is, publicly. It is no coincidence that the Russian president’s press secretary mentioned this topic despite it not being discussed at the meeting. Peskov made it clear that Vardanyan’s fate is at least a reason for a serious conversation with his Azerbaijani counterpart. Especially given the fact that Baku is holding dozens of Artsakh leaders under arrest.
According to information from various sources, Moscow allegedly guaranteed their security, while Russian peacekeepers even tried to protect them. But Azerbaijani military forces did not allow them to be taken away from the peacekeeper base at Stepanakert airport. They demanded to extradite everyone and threatened to shoot down the aircraft if they tried to leave by helicopter. After the car with the deputy commander of the peacekeeping group was shot at, these threats were taken seriously.
The detention of the republic’s authorities raises questions, but Armenian military leaders are one thing, and Ruben Vardanyan, who moved to Karabakh after the hostilities were over, is completely different.
Previously, a convenient explanation was offered to the public: no passport — no problem. Of course, it is a poor man’s version, just like the idea that Vardanyan, who renounced his Russian citizenship, wanted to dodge sanctions. But when someone tries to avoid economic restrictions, they usually end up on the beach in front of their mansion, not in Karabakh at war with bullets whizzing overhead.
For a man of this scale and wealth, moving to an enemy-surrounded enclave is rather an act of self-sacrifice. In a certain sense, this is a truly Christian action when a person risks himself to save others. In our times, this is an extremely rare occurrence. One of Vardanyan’s humanitarian projects, Aurora, actually awards people who risk their own lives to save others.
Vardanyan is not only a businessman, but also a well-known patron of the arts and a philanthropist. He has funded many educational and humanitarian projects around the globe. He was on boards of trustees at Skolkovo, RANEPA, the Pushkin Museum, Pletnev Orchestra and the GES-2 art space. Many of Vardanyan’s humanitarian projects are connected with Russia in one way or another, so allegations around surrendering his passport are just an attempt to create some negative context where none exists. A passport, just like citizenship, is not synonymous with patriotism, but merely a bureaucratic procedure. I’d like to believe that Vardanyan’s services to Russia — not in terms of business, but in terms of humanitarian aid — are worth devoting a few moments of Putin’s time with Aliyev regarding his fate. Even if not publicly, but in a private meeting.”
“Recently, a community center was opened in the village of Halidzor in the south of Armenia. It exists thanks to Ruben Vardanyan’s foundation. The prominent philanthropist and public figure detained by Azerbaijani authorities is now in a Baku prison. But his projects continue to live in Armenia, Russia and other countries.
He co-founded the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative. It helps the most disadvantaged people, primarily victims of military action. Since 2014, more than 400 humanitarian projects in over 50 countries have received support. Thanks to Aurora’s programs, 2.7 million people around the world have received direct or indirect aid, more than half of them are children.
In his humanitarian work, Vardanyan paid special attention to education. He founded the Scholae Mundi Charitable Foundation, which is among the top 20 best foundations launched by Russian entrepreneurs according to Forbes Russia. One of Scholae Mundi’s project is the Hand-in-Hand Grant Contest, which promotes the best adaptation procedures for refugee children and adolescents. Vardanyan served on the board of trustees of many universities, including MSU and RANEPA, he was a jury member for the world’s biggest award in education, the Yidan Prize (Hong Kong).
Even this incomplete list outlines a world-scale figure. Therefore, today, when his future is alarming, one cannot indiscriminately believe the rumors that ill-wishers are spreading.
Last year, Vardanyan left the Russian Federation, renouncing Russian citizenship. This measure was necessary to prevent allegations regarding Moscow’s participation in the protracted military conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Vardanyan created the territorial development agency ‘We are Our Mountains’ in the NKR. Among other projects, it restored hundreds of residential buildings, supported the energy system and created mobile medical teams. In total, the agency implemented more than 10 targeted charity initiatives.
Later, he assumed the post of state minister, which made it possible to expand the social projects implementation toolkit. It was not about a political career and definitely not about the desire to hide from sanctions in this region.
Helping people living in this war-torn region remained Vardanyan’s key goal. Despite the difficult situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, Ruben Vardanyan did not stop participating in Russian projects — of which there are more than two hundred. Vardanyan was and remains a patriot of both Armenia and Russia, and all his humanitarian initiatives prove it better than words ever could. That is why the philanthropist’s arrest raised such a wave of support in Russian society. I hope it will reach the highest level and help to free Vardanyan.”
“While Pashinyan and Aliyev cannot agree, prominent philanthropist Vardanyan is in prison.
At the same time, hundreds of his charitable projects continue to work in Russia — Aurora, dozens of NPOs launched by Ruben, the Skolkovo business school, and many others. They live in spite of all the speculations around Vardanyan’s citizenship and Russian passport, which they want to use as a wedge to unsettle his relations with Moscow.
Before leaving for the NKR, he actually surrendered his Russian citizenship, trying to show the Armenians that he stood with them during these trying times. But it is strange to accuse Vardanyan of “fleeing Russia from sanctions.” People usually flee westward and away from bullets.
Now Vardanyan is being illegally detained in Azerbaijan, facing absurd accusations.The Armenian side’s attempts to settle the issue are in vain. Obviously, the Russian authorities should once again lend a hand in the long-standing conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh — it cannot be over while people like Vardanyan remain in Baku prisons.”
“Why would Moscow benefit from Vardanyan’s release and would it make sense to prioritize his fate during the negotiations?
In the last two years, Russia’s participation in settling the Karabakh conflict looks ambiguous and very vague in terms of results. It would be an exaggeration to discuss the success of the peacekeeping mission. Past examples of Russia not showing much interest in the fate of its former allies and partners who were arrested (for example, ex-president of Kyrgyzstan Almazbek Atambayev) did not make Moscow more appealing as an ally in the post-Soviet space.
Moreover, all interested parties (not only in the South Caucasus) see Vardanyan as a pro-Russian figure. His nominal withdrawal from Russian citizenship was not a demonstrative relocation, but a way to ensure freedom of actions in attempts to settle the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict politically, so that neither side would speculate on Moscow’s participation. It is no secret that he remained one of the major influential figures of Russian business, continuing to implement large-scale humanitarian projects in the Russian Federation. Lastly, the very presence of Vardanyan on the political scene gave the Russian side additional maneuverability. This will continue to be true even now. In turn, Vardanyan’s isolation will make, surprisingly, Pashinyan government a beneficiary of the crisis, as it is focused on tough suppression of all forms of internal opposition. And I’m not sure that Moscow will find this result psychologically and politically comfortable.”
“Vardanyan had lived in Russia for a long time — at first, doing business, then launching social projects. He opened the Skolkovo business school, co-founded the Primakov Foundation, helped Russian NPOs in solving social problems. As part of its work, Philin Philgood supported over 100 Russian non-profit organizations, 30 of which were created with Vardanyan’s participation. Being its key benefactor, he provided money for the construction of the temple complex of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of New Nakhichevan and Russia. Ruben continues to take part in these and many other social projects to this day.
During the military conflict in the NKR, Vardanyan decided to leave Russia to support his compatriots. This was followed by the renouncement of Russian citizenship, motivated by the desire to be honest with their people and to avoid any doubts regarding his country affiliation. Subsequently, it led to much controversy — some people accused Vardanyan of dodging sanctions, others saw this act as a betrayal. But one should keep in mind that people avoiding sanctions usually flee to the opposite direction and express vehement denunciation of Moscow’s actions — we can see many such examples (these are standard actions of “fugitive billionaires”). Try searching the web for at least one of Vardanyan’s interview condemning Russia — he made no attempts to reinsure himself against sanctions. Moreover, even after his departure, Vardanyan, continued to help his Russian projects showing no fear of sanctions.
The entire Russian community came to Vardanyan’s defense: human rights activists, businessmen, charitable organizations, cultural figures — all of them unanimously called for the philanthropist’s release. And now the most important question. Should the Russian authorities protect their own citizen, albeit a former one? In my opinion, there are good reasons for this: Vardanyan has lived and worked in Russia for many years, and the projects launched by the philanthropist continue to serve the Russian Federation. Even from prison, Vardanyan tries to support them through his wife and children who live in Moscow. Obviously, it is Russia that should stand up for Vardanyan: the two sides of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict will never agree.”
“Vardanyan has been engaged in charity work in Russia for many years, he has launched over two hundred humanitarian initiatives. Despite his departure and renunciation of Russian citizenship, Vardanyan was still a part of Russian projects and continued to provide support.
Russian public figures, human rights activists, cultural figures, and businessmen came to his defense. Obviously, this is not enough — the prominent philanthropist is still behind bars.
Earlier, Vardanyan was accused of evading sanctions, however, let me remind you, he “fled” sanctions and ran to the war in Nagorno-Karabakh, not to Nice. He returned to his homeland to resolve the conflict, and in this case, a Russian passport would have evoked speculations associated with Moscow’s participation. The Russian authorities should pay attention to Vardanyan’s detention — the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is not over as long as the prisoners are being held in Baku.”
“The war continues as long as Azerbaijan holds Artsakh leaders, including the world-famous philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan, whose charitable and social projects are well known both in Russia and abroad.
Information about his condition after the politically motivated arrest is scarce. As long as such a person is in the dungeons, where even the Red Cross lacks access, the war continues, despite Baku saying otherwise.
And the formal, resulting from bureaucratic reasons, absence of a Russian passport does not mean that Moscow has lost interest in Vardanyan. Moreover, this does not mean the end of hostilities — at least on the diplomatic front. The conflict will end when the prisoners — this is the term that should be used in relation to Vardanyan — will be free. Russia should make every effort to get the philanthropist out of prison. He must return to his family and to his peaceful, charitable projects that strengthen the relations between our countries. And bring harmony and justice to this world overall.”
“17 days have passed since Azerbaijani forces arrested prominent philanthropist, patron of arts, entrepreneur and public figure Ruben Vardanyan.
During this time, Azerbaijani President Aliyev met with Russian President Putin.
According to TASS, Putin and Aliyev did not discuss the situation of Vardanyan during the public portion of the meeting.
As you know, Vardanyan renounced his Russian citizenship in favor of an Armenian one.
I don’t think it was due to the fear of sanctions.
At some point, Armenian and Karabakh patriot Vardanyan simply decided that investing money was no longer enough, that his experience, skills, abilities, and connections could help preserve Artsakh as an Armenian autonomy.
But the plan failed.
Now Ruben Vardanyan’s associates have launched the FreeVardanyan.com website to support the philanthropist, who has hundreds of social and humanitarian projects in Russia, Armenia and Karabakh under his belt.
To support Ruben Vardanyan, thousands of people are signing the Change.org petition, recording videos and publishing supportive posts on their social media pages.
Ruben Vardanyan’s fate worries many prominent figures who consider his arrest a blatant injustice. Knowing how much good he has done in Russia, Armenia and Karabakh, I want to believe that common sense will prevail and Azerbaijani authorities will grant him amnesty. The Russian Federation must not turn away from a person who, among other things, has done so much for our country.”
“As for all my political differences with Ruben Vardanyan, I would like to say that they do not matter now. Ruben turned out to be a real man. This is a rare quality when a financier becomes a true warrior. I can say that every Armenian must express support to him. Every Armenian around the world. “Free Vardanyan!” It must become a slogan for all!!!”
“We all know about former state minister of Nagorno-Karabakh Ruben Vardanyan’s arrest as he tried to enter Armenia. Personally, I admire Vardanyan’s actions. In fact, the person consciously sacrificed himself. He gave up everything he had: business, Russian citizenship and went to help Karabakh, staying there until the very end and making no attempts to flee.”
“Today, Armenians worldwide must unite to fight for the prompt release of Bako Sahakyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, Arayik Harutyunyan, David Ishkhanyan, Ruben Vardanyan, David Manukyan, Levon Mnatsakanyan, and David Babayan. Of course, we cannot ignore the other prisoners of war, but the abovementioned are a priority.
If we want to the right to fight for Artsakh in the future, and to demand a certain status, the fight for the NKR leaders’ freedom must not stop even for a second.
Regardless of all objective and subjective circumstances, these people are a criterion of our national dignity today. As long as they are kept behind bars, Armenia and Artsakh have no chance. There is no need to talk about this incessantly. But we need to constantly think and work on solving this problem. Once again: the future of Artsakh depends on it. I believe it can still be bright.”
“A letter written by Skolkovo business school graduates, in defense of Ruben Vardanyan arrested by Azerbaijani authorities, caught my eye. The way former students stand up for the founder of their alma mater is worthy of respect. Moreover, these are not ordinary schoolchildren but graduates of a unique educational institution that has become a talent factory for the domestic economy. I think we need not mention the average student IQ level there. Thus, their opinion is at least worth hearing out.”
“Here we have a unique case when a person’s deeds are known so well that the whole world is ready to vouch for him.
On September 27, former NKR state minister Ruben Vardanyan was detained by Azerbaijani authorities, and from that day on people from very different areas and industries have been speaking out in support of the famous philanthropist.
He has done so much for Russia. In the midst of war, he left for Karabakh, aiming to support its residents, his native people. This plan backfired: Vardanyan is now in prison, all his humanitarian projects have lost their leader. Let’s not forget, it was Vardanyan who was there at the start of the Skolkovo business school, whose graduates now write letters supporting the first president of one of Russia’s best educational institutions.
Former students (and possibly future top officials) those concerned to help free social entrepreneur Ruben Vardanyan. According to the graduates, even after renouncing Russian citizenship, he continued to selflessly develop educational projects in Russia.
“Ruben Vardanyan is an outstanding businessman, philanthropist, and man of integrity. But, as it turns out, this is not enough to be a successful politician, even more so — a politician of a country at war. At first, Vardanyan went to Karabakh to become administrator, the prime minister. He then decided to stay, showing that he was a good person and a great politician. I think the transformation of businessman Vardanyan into politician Vardanyan took place when he decided to stay rather than run away in a woman’s dress or on the floor of a car like some businessmen fleeing Russia — he made the choice to stay, knowing that he might very well be detained. He has not yet become a public politician, but a politician has certainly been born. What will happen next? Will Azerbaijan release him, exchange him for someone? Will unofficial friends come to his aid, and will they be able to convince President Aliyev that Vardanyan is not involved in what, for example, Arayik Harutyunyan is charged with? Ruben was engaged in economic activities, not shelling.”
“I don’t know anyone who has influenced the world around them more than Ruben Vardanyan. He’s helped the world become more educated, more tolerant, nobler and kinder. Free Ruben Vardanyan!” #freerubenvardanyan
“Today my heart is heavy as a man I deeply admire, a true role-model, has been unjustly detained by Azerbaijan. Each time we spoke, I was touched by his strong love for Armenia and his vision of a bright future for our motherland. His passion , in fact, was one of the reasons I decided to return to Armenia from the USA.
Now that he is faced with this unfair accusation, I want to raise our concern and demand the safe release of Ruben and all other Armenians detained in Azerbaijan. September 30 at 15:00 — ‘Ruben, we are with you!’ A solidarity march in support of Ruben Vardanyan, who was unjustly captured by the Azerbaijani authorities on false charges, will begin at Matenadaran.”
“Amid the all-encompassing tragedy, acute humanitarian crisis and mass resettlement of Artsakh Armenians, there are also individual events that undermine the system of humanitarian values, human dignity and moral norms. One most recent is the illegal arrest of philanthropist and public figure Ruben Vardanyan along with other Armenians by Azerbaijani forces.
Taking into account Ruben Vardanyan’s significant contribution to the preservation of cultural heritage and dissemination of genocide prevention ideas, we urge relevant international organizations to take immediate action. Help protect the rights of Ruben Vardanyan and all unjustly arrested Armenians and ensure their release.
P.S. For the eighth year running, the Aurora Prize humanitarian initiative has kept a handwritten chronicle in the Matenadaran, recording the names of Aurora Prize winners who have devoted their lives and careers to humanitarian values. This register bears the name The Book of Philanthropists.”
“The Armenian Assembly condemns the illegal abduction of Ruben Vardanyan by Azerbaijan at an illegal checkpoint in the Lachin corridor on September 27. The charges he faces are beyond absurd. Ruben Vardanyan’s humanitarian contributions have been invaluable for Armenia and the international community. He abandoned his normal life and went to Artsakh to promote its development and to face the hardships resulting from the war and blockade along with residents of the republic. We believe that justice will prevail, and Ruben Vardanyan will be released soon. We express our deepest support to his wife, Veronika Zonabend, his family and friends. Once again, we urge you to be active and appeal to all relevant authorities in your countries of residence.”
“Ruben Vardanyan is a devoted son of the Armenian people and an exceptional patriot of his motherland… We, Armenians, must demand to free our fellow countryman, Ruben Karlenovich, everywhere it is possible! I DEMAND #СВОБОДУРУБЕНУВАРДАНЯНУ [Free Ruben Vardanyan].”
“Vardanyan is a true symbol of the Armenian people. He is a brave person, humanitarian, and philanthropist. The Aurora humanitarian initiative and the Initiatives for Development of Armenia Foundation were founded with Vardanyan’s participation, as well as three international schools: Skolkovo, Matena and Dilijan School.”
“I join my fellow Armenians in demanding the safe release of Ruben Vardanyan and all other detained Armenians. As tens of thousands of families flee Nagorno-Karabakh in search of a safe haven in Armenia, detention is becoming an alarming trend. Ruben Vardanyan stands out as an outspoken supporter of peace not only in our region, but throughout the world. He is a world-renowned philanthropist, businessman and co-founder of the Aurora Prize humanitarian initiative, which advocates building peace and provides education and healthcare to people around the globe. #RubenVardanyan #FreeArmenianHostages.”
“Throughout the most trying days for the people of Artsakh, Ruben Vardanyan stood by their side, trying to stop the humanitarian catastrophe and the exodus of this region’s native population. He strived to help find a formula for both Armenians and Azerbaijanis to live together on this long-suffering land side by side, but not together. Instead, we have a formula for the reintegration of Artsakh into Azerbaijan with the following statistics after only one week:
- hundreds dead and thousands wounded;
- more than 50 thousand refugees from Artsakh have already moved to Armenia;
- an endless flow of cars with refugees towards Armenia continues.
I stand next to and support Ruben Vardanyan!”
“Ruben Vardanyan is an Armenian citizen, and our country is dealing with this issue. I cannot say how, for what reasons and on what criminal conviction Vardanyan has been detained. We are currently working with the European Court of Human Rights on this. Returning our citizens back home is our top priority.”
