Trump Expected to Announce Azerbaijan-Armenia Peace Deal

A historic peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia is set to be initialed in Washington, signaling consensus on the treaty's provisions and readiness to move toward a legally binding peace deal, although Armenia will hold a nationwide referendum in 2026 before final signing. U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to announce the agreement during a high-level White House summit attended by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough in the long-standing conflict. The framework includes exclusive U.S. development rights to a strategic 43-kilometer transit corridor through Armenia, dubbed the "Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity," aimed at improving regional connectivity and economic prospects. While the U.S. State Department has refrained from confirming details ahead of the announcement, the peace initiative reflects months of diplomatic efforts by U.S. officials, with Turkey also playing a strategic role in fostering dialogue and supporting regional stability. The agreement could transform the South Caucasus region, reducing hostilities and enhancing energy and transit cooperation among neighboring countries. This development aligns with broader U.S. goals of expanding peace accords in the region and promoting economic integration.