In a landmark event held at the White House, President Donald Trump facilitated a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, aimed at resolving decades of hostilities. The deal was signed by Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, with Trump calling the moment "historic."
"It's been a long time coming," Trump remarked, highlighting the significance of the agreement, which includes the reopening of crucial transport routes and bolstering U.S. influence in the region. For years, Azerbaijan and Armenia have been embroiled in conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, an ethnically Armenian region within Azerbaijan's borders, with clashes dating back to the late 20th century.
During the summit, Trump announced that both leaders had committed to cease all hostilities for good and foster new travel, diplomatic, and business relations. "Today marks the establishment of peace in the Caucasus," claimed Aliyev, who expressed hopes for a future free from wars and bloodshed. Pashinyan echoed his sentiments, declaring the signing a "significant milestone" in their bilateral relations.
The agreement also encompasses plans for the U.S. to construct a major transit corridor, named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, which will connect Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan exclave, separated by Armenian land. This particular route has been a focal point of contention in previous negotiations.
Both leaders recognized Trump's role in the negotiations, with Aliyev praising him for achieving a "miracle" in merely six months. The deal is poised to revolutionize energy and technology trade between the countries and reflects a strategic shift in geopolitical influence, as the U.S. seeks to elevate its role in the region historically mediated by Russia.
The signing comes amid ongoing tensions, with Armenians wary of potential renewed conflict despite the optimistic rhetoric surrounding the agreement. Trump's involvement is also notable against the backdrop of an upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, suggesting a transition in diplomatic leadership in the Caucasus.
