Washington views the peace process between Baku and Yerevan as a wider geopolitical issue as prolonging the process could prompt other powers to use the conflict to act in their own interest, the Jamestown Foundation writes. According to the think tank’s analysis, U.S. diplomats propose an initiative of economic connectivity via transit routes passing through Armenia and Azerbaijan to the surrounding region as a proposed motivator for a quick peace between Yeravan and Baku.
The statements of U.S. officials indicate that the United States does not support Azerbaijan and Iran’s Aras Corridor project. Washington also opposes the involvement of the Russian Federal Security Service’s (FSB) Border Guard Service in the Zangezur Corridor as a potential party to exercise “control over transit” as envisioned by the trilateral statement between Russia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan of November 10, 2020.
U.S. officials acknowledge that it is not only a matter of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations but the situation is also viewed externally as an issue that can critically impact larger rivalries between the United States and its geopolitical foes, most directly Russia, China, and Iran.
Against this backdrop, Washington seeks to draw Armenia and Azerbaijan closer to the West. In parallel, peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan are proceeding well in some areas while facing obstacles in other, potentially more critical, areas.
Washington’s persistent calls for an immediate peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan highlight the significant geopolitical stakes involved. “The United States sees this peace not merely as a regional matter but as a strategic pivot point that could shift the balance of power and connectivity in the South Caucasus and Central Asia, especially regarding transit and energy connectivity. Despite progress in some areas, such as border delimitation, significant obstacles remain, particularly the issue of Armenia’s constitution. While the United States continues to offer support and avenues for dialogue, the road to a comprehensive peace agreement remains fraught with challenge,” the analysts concluded.
