By John Q. Hosedrinker 
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Leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan shake hands and sign a deal at a peace summit, marking a significant moment in a long-standing and complex conflict. This agreement, a welcome development, is aimed at establishing a lasting peace between these two nations.
The deal, from what I gather, includes the establishment of the Zangezur Corridor, a land link designed to connect Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan enclave, which will pass through Armenian territory. The agreement is also slated to be called the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity” or TRIPP. Objectively, this is a positive step, irrespective of the individual or entity that may take credit for it.
One of the key aspects of this agreement is the potential for increased American investment in the region. From an Azerbaijani perspective, that level of investment could prove very beneficial in fostering stability and economic growth within the framework of the peace agreement. The involvement of the United States, particularly its economic influence, could be seen as a means of counteracting the influence of other regional powers, specifically Russia.
Of course, any peace deal is multifaceted. While the agreement is largely beneficial, it’s important to acknowledge that it may lean a bit in Azerbaijan’s favor. For example, Armenia is set to abandon its claims to Artsakh, with those who fled not expected to return. However, the corridor, though traversing Armenian land, will be managed by the US, not Azerbaijan. This arrangement helps to assuage some of the potential concerns regarding Armenian sovereignty.
The whole situation also sends a clear message to Russia, as both Armenia and Azerbaijan want to escape the orbit of Russian influence. Despite their historical animosities, their desire to lessen their dependence on Russia seems to be a stronger unifying factor at this point. It’s a component of the broader geopolitical shifts occurring, particularly the proxy war between the West and Russia and Iran, and it highlights the declining role of Russian influence in the region.
It’s no secret that the former US President appears eager for the Nobel Peace Prize. This deal, while perhaps facilitated by circumstances, likely presented an opportunity to be the center of attention. It is a reminder of the lengths to which he might go to secure this recognition. The timing of the deal, following an extended ceasefire, suggests that a resolution may have been possible regardless.
The reality of the situation is that the peace was primarily negotiated by the combatants, without a third-party arbiter. This suggests that the terms represent a commitment to a lasting peace, and this will require the cooperation of both sides. This may be difficult to realize, but perhaps this is the first step.
It is important to also consider that this deal is not without its critics. Some are concerned that Armenia has made significant concessions and, if not handled carefully, may face challenges down the road. Additionally, there are those who are skeptical that the agreement will stand the test of time and that the underlying conflicts could reignite in the future.
It’s worth considering the broader picture and the possible motivations of the United States in brokering this agreement. The US has the ability to foster a peace deal. This is not to diminish the importance of the peace itself but to recognize the factors that contribute to its success. In this case, the decline of Russian influence in the region, due to the war in Ukraine, has helped pave the way for this agreement.
The potential for lasting peace in the region is significant, but it requires the commitment and cooperation of both Armenia and Azerbaijan. Regardless of personal feelings about any specific figures involved, this is a moment that is worth celebrating and hoping for the best.