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US Vice President Visits Armenia and Azerbaijan
US Vice President JD Vance visited Armenia and Azerbaijan this week. His trip highlighted Washington’s growing influence in a region long dominated by Russia. The visit focused on economic cooperation, strategic partnerships, and reinforcing a US-brokered peace agreement.
Analysts said the agreements signed during the trip sent a clear message to Moscow.
TRIPP Corridor: A Key Economic Project
At the center of talks was the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP). This 43-kilometer road-and-rail corridor in Armenia will connect Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave. It also creates a new east-west trade route bypassing Russia and Iran.
Vance emphasized strong global interest in TRIPP. Experts estimate billions of dollars could flow into the project, boosting trade and US influence in the region.
Armenia Nuclear Deal: Modernization of Metsamor Plant
Armenia agreed with the US to explore replacing the aging Metsamor nuclear plant with small modular reactors. The plant provides about one-third of Armenia’s electricity. It is also in a seismically active area, making modernization crucial for safety.
The deal could bring $5 billion in initial US exports and another $4 billion in long-term fuel and maintenance contracts. This marks Armenia’s shift toward the West and away from dependence on Russia.
Defense Cooperation and Surveillance Drones
The US will supply Armenia with $11 million worth of surveillance drones. These will improve regional security and monitoring. Analysts say the move reflects Armenia’s broader strategy to diversify defense partnerships beyond Moscow.
Strategic Partnership With Azerbaijan
In Baku, Vance signed a strategic partnership charter. It covers trade, energy, connectivity, AI, digital development, security, and defense.
Unlike Armenia’s agreement, the Azerbaijan deal focuses less on democratic institutions. However, it signals that the US sees Azerbaijan as a hub for technology and economic growth.
Additionally, Washington pledged new patrol boats to help Azerbaijan protect its territorial waters from potential threats from Russia and Iran.
Genocide Memorial Controversy
Vance visited the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial. His official X account initially called the visit an effort to honor victims of the 1915 Armenian genocide. The post was later deleted, reportedly by staff in error.
The deletion caused tension among Armenians. The issue is sensitive because Turkey disputes the term “genocide,” while dozens of other countries recognize it.
Human Rights Concerns in Azerbaijan
Vance’s visit also raised questions about political prisoners in Azerbaijan. His team said prisoner releases were discussed, but it was unclear whether this included Azerbaijani activists or Armenian detainees.
Human rights organizations have highlighted issues such as arbitrary arrests, prolonged detention, and mistreatment of journalists and political opponents.
Looking Ahead
JD Vance’s Caucasus trip strengthens US influence in the region. Projects like TRIPP and the Metsamor nuclear modernization show America’s growing economic and strategic role.
With partnerships in both Armenia and Azerbaijan, the US is shaping the region’s future while signaling a shift away from Russian dominance.
