Trump Mediates Landmark Accord: Azerbaijan and Armenia Establish Full Diplomatic Ties

WASHINGTON D.C. — Following decades of conflict that claimed thousands of lives—including Assyrians— on both sides, particularly over the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) enclave, which Azerbaijan ultimately secured, the United States successfully mediated efforts to de-escalate tensions and foster reconciliation between Armenia and Azerbaijan, culminating in the signing of a permanent peace agreement between Baku and Yerevan. 

The agreement, signed on Friday, August 8, 2025, during a summit at the White House in Washington, brought together Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. U.S. President Donald Trump played a pivotal role in mediating the negotiations. The accord seeks to definitively ends hostilities between the two nations, establish full diplomatic and commercial relations, and ensure mutual respect for each country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The agreement also includes provisions for a transit corridor through Armenian territory, connecting Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan exclave. 

In a statement, President Trump highlighted that both Armenia and Azerbaijan have committed to a permanent cessation of hostilities under this peace deal, emphasizing that the agreement paves the way for cooperative engagement between the two nations. 

President Trump announced that the US will enter into cooperation agreements with both Armenia and Azerbaijan across various sectors, while also emphasizing that the U.S. will lift restrictions on defence transactions with Azerbaijan. 

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev described the peace agreement with Armenia as “historic,” revealing intentions to chart a path of cooperation and strategic partnership with Washington. He expressed optimism about Azerbaijan’s prospects for new trade and investment opportunities. 

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called the peace deal with Azerbaijan “truly remarkable,” noting that it ushers in a new era of respect for both nations’ territorial integrity. He further stated that the agreement will strengthen regional connectivity and underscored Washington’s leadership in conflict resolution.