In an unprecedented diplomatic move, Azerbaijan and Armenia have officially signed a peace agreement at a summit held at the White House, hosted by President Donald Trump. On Friday, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia exchanged handshakes after the US leader hailed the event as a "historic" moment. “It’s been a long time coming,” Trump remarked, highlighting the agreement's potential to reopen essential transportation channels and boost American influence in the region.
For decades, the two countries have been embroiled in conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, resulting in extensive violence during the late 20th century. However, Trump proclaimed that both nations have vowed to cease hostilities "forever" and work towards establishing travel, business, and diplomatic ties. “Today, we are establishing peace in the Caucasus,” said Aliyev, who reflected on the significant loss of life and stability due to prolonged warfare.
Pashinyan characterized the agreement as a “significant milestone,” emphasizing the potential for friendship following years of enmity. Trump noted, “Thirty-five years they fought, and now they're friends.” This summit also introduced plans for a major transit corridor, to be named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, connecting Azerbaijan with its exclave of Nakhchivan through Armenian territory—a contentious issue that has hampered previous negotiations.
Both leaders expressed gratitude to Trump for his role in facilitating the peace talks. Aliyev asserted that Trump had achieved a "miracle" in just six months, while Trump announced the signing of a bilateral trade agreement to foster energy and technology exchanges.
This groundbreaking summit demonstrates the US’s increasing role in the region, traditionally influenced by Russia. While Moscow has historically served as a peace mediator, recent events indicate a shift towards American-led negotiations. The new agreement further marginalizes Russia's previous position, notably contrasting recent mediation efforts by President Vladimir Putin.
As Trump prepares for an upcoming meeting with Putin in Alaska, this peace deal marks a pivotal shift in longstanding regional dynamics, raising questions about future relationships among these nations and the role of global powers in the Caucasus.
