Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan have reached a historic series of agreements aimed at establishing long-term peace in the South Caucasus. This trilateral meeting, hosted at the White House on August 8, 2025, comes just a month after initial discussions in Abu Dhabi, where the leaders focused on border delimitation, the Zangezur corridor, and the peace agreement.
According to Global Voices, the leaders unveiled a joint seven-point declaration and a draft peace agreement, although no date has been set for the final signing. During the White House ceremony, Trump emphasized the historic nature of the event, highlighting that the two nations have moved from being adversaries to partners. He noted that while the European Union, Russia, and other leaders had previously failed to achieve similar outcomes, this agreement marks a turning point in the 35-year conflict.
The draft agreement, announced in March 2025, involves significant concessions from Armenia, including the removal of European Union monitors from the border and the dropping of international lawsuits. Azerbaijan has been critical of EU monitors since their deployment in October 2022, accusing them of bias. Armenia is also expected to amend its constitution to remove any perceived territorial claims to Azerbaijan. Prime Minister Pashinyan supports a new constitution through a national referendum planned for 2027.
A significant development in the agreement is the establishment of the Zangezur Corridor, now branded as the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP). This corridor, a crucial transport link through Armenia, connects Azerbaijan to its exclave of Nakhchivan. While Armenia retains sovereignty, the U.S. will select an operator to develop and administer the corridor for 99 years.
The agreement also includes Trump’s decision to repeal Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act, which had prevented U.S. assistance to Azerbaijan. This marks a new strategic partnership between the U.S. and Azerbaijan. Aliyev expressed optimism for reconciliation and a bright future for both nations.
The parties have committed to ceasing hostilities, opening trade and travel routes, establishing diplomatic relations, and respecting each other’s territorial integrity. Trump praised Aliyev and Pashinyan for their personal commitment to peace, dismissing concerns about potential setbacks.
International reactions to the agreement have been mixed. Iran has expressed concern over foreign-imposed changes near its borders, while Turkey and Western stakeholders have welcomed the agreement as a step toward regional stability. In Moscow, reactions have been cautious, with some Russian commentators expressing concern over the shifting geopolitical balance in the region. Russian state TV host Vladimir Solovyov warned of potential military operations if Russian interests are not respected.