Trump Mediates another Remarkable Peace Accord
On August 8, 2025, a historic joint declaration for peace was signed between Azerbaijan and Armenia at the White House, marking a significant milestone in their relations [2][3][5]. This peace agreement, brokered by President Donald J. Trump, is a major step towards lasting peace and normalization in the South Caucasus region.
Key Details of the Declaration
The initialed agreement, published on August 11, 2025, commits both nations to just, comprehensive, and lasting peace based on principles of international law, good-neighborliness, and cooperation as outlined by the UN Charter and other international frameworks [1].
The declaration recognizes the territorial integrity of Armenia and Azerbaijan as it existed during the USSR era. It requires Armenia to amend its constitution to remove claims over Nagorno-Karabakh, which Azerbaijan gained control of. International monitoring missions, including Russian peacekeepers and EU ceasefire monitors, will be removed from border areas [2].
The agreement opens the door for full diplomatic relations and withdrawal of disputes from international courts, aiming at creating peaceful coexistence and resolving conflicts through dialogue [1][2][4]. A significant infrastructure project included in the peace process is a 27-mile corridor through Armenian territory connecting Azerbaijan to its exclave Nakhchivan and facilitating direct links with Turkey and Central Asia [4].
Geopolitical Implications
The agreement shifts regional dynamics by involving the US as a key stabilizing actor, limiting Russia and Iran’s roles, and enabling Turkey to serve as a buffer against interference [3][4]. The US holds exclusive development rights for 99 years and will sublease to a consortium for rail, oil, gas, fiber optic, and possibly power lines [4]. This corridor aims to bypass Iran and Russia, reducing their influence in the South Caucasus.
Remaining Challenges
The declaration is an important framework but not a comprehensive settlement of all issues, notably leaving unresolved the detailed governance of Nagorno-Karabakh and the question of Armenian displaced persons’ right of return [2][3].
Implications
The declaration has the potential to transform regional relations by enabling economic connectivity, opening borders (for instance, Turkey-Armenia), and enhancing security cooperation. It reduces the possibility of renewed armed conflict by legally binding parties to peace and recognition of territorial status [4].
The US’s strategic involvement in infrastructure development marks a significant geopolitical shift, aiming to counterbalance Russian, Iranian, and Chinese influence in the region [4]. The agreement signals a hopeful transition from conflict to cooperation but requires continued international oversight and political will from both Armenia and Azerbaijan to fully implement and sustain peace [3].
Leaders' Statements
President Trump said, "For more than 35 years, Armenia and Azerbaijan have fought a bitter conflict that resulted in tremendous suffering for both nations." Prime Minister Pashinyan attributed this breakthrough to President Trump's personal engagement and resolute commitment to peace. President Aliyev further said, "We will turn the page of standoff, confrontation, and bloodshed, and provide a bright and safe future for our children." [1][3][5]
President Aliyev also stated, "Within several months, he managed to put an end to conflicts in Asia, in Africa, and now in South Caucasus." These agreements unlock the great potential of the South Caucasus region in trade, transit, energy, infrastructure, and technology [3].
The joint declaration is a landmark achievement for international diplomacy, potentially transforming the South Caucasus towards stability but its success will depend on addressing remaining disputes and sustained diplomatic engagement.
- The historical joint declaration signed by Azerbaijan and Armenia on August 8, 2025, at the White House, not only indicates a shift in the South Caucasus region's politics but also opens avenues for technological advancements, as the agreement includes a significant infrastructure project that aims to bypass Iran and Russia.
- In addition to fostering diplomatic relations between the two nations, the joint declaration addresses issues in technology, business, and general news by offering opportunities for economic connectivity, direct links with Turkey and Central Asia, and potential development projects in fiber optics and power lines.
- The peaceful coexistence established through the joint declaration may also have implications for war and conflicts, as it could potentially reduce Russian and Iranian influence in the South Caucasus, thus lessening the chances of future conflicts in the region.
