In a landmark event, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan officially signed a peace agreement at the White House, marking a significant shift in their long-standing conflict. Hosted by President Donald Trump, the leaders came together to address decades of violence primarily centered around the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.
Trump heralded the gathering as "historic," remarking on the prolonged nature of negotiations and the impact of the deal on transport routes between the countries. "It's been a long time coming," he stated, expressing hope that the agreement would usher in a new era of increased American influence in the Caucasus.
The Fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia has deep roots, with violent clashes spanning back to the 1980s and 1990s when the two nations fought over the ethnically Armenian enclave. The recent peace accord includes mutual commitments to cease hostilities indefinitely and expand travel and business opportunities. "We are today establishing peace in the Caucasus," Aliyev declared, highlighting the necessity of ending years of bloodshed.
Pashinyan termed the signing a "significant milestone," and both leaders acknowledged Trump's instrumental role in crafting the deal. The agreement encompasses plans for a major transit corridor, dubbed the "Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity," which will link Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave, currently hindered by Armenian territory.
The negotiations between the two nations have historically faltered over control of road access, with each side presenting staunch demands. However, Trump noted that his administration's engagement has led to a breakthrough. "President Trump in six months did a miracle," Aliyev remarked in appreciation of the U.S. President's efforts.
In addition to the peace initiative, Trump announced bilateral agreements with both nations to enhance trade in energy and technology. The summit signifies a strategic pivot, enhancing U.S. presence in the region, previously dominated by Russian influence and peacekeeping efforts.
The growing engagement of the U.S. in this geopolitical landscape represents a notable change as Moscow's long-standing role as a mediator faces challenges. The timing of the agreement coincides with Trump's planned talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin next week in Alaska, further signaling a realignment of power in negotiations concerning former Soviet territories.
