The United States Has Grand Plans in the Caucasus
Foreign Policy
by Eugene ChausovskyFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The United States is deepening its involvement in the Caucasus region, focusing on strengthening ties with Armenia and Azerbaijan as strategic partners amid regional tensions and global competition. The Trump administration has been actively mediating between these two long-time adversaries while advancing economic ties through trade and infrastructure projects. This engagement aims to enhance U.S. influence in a region crucial for managing conflicts with Russia and China, as well as addressing instability in Iran.
The Caucasus region is no stranger to military conflict, particularly the decades-long war between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. Despite failed mediation attempts by groups like the dissolved Minsk Group, Azerbaijan launched successful military operations in 2020 and 2023, reclaiming territory and reconnecting with strategic partners like Turkey. This victory allowed Azerbaijan to expand its influence, including re-establishing ties with Armenia through diplomatic normalization.
Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who came to power in
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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/24/2026