US anchors new era in South Caucasus: From technology to defence Article by The Times of Israel

The Times of Israel has published an article dedicated to the visit of US Vice President JD Vance to Azerbaijan and Armenia. Caliber.Az reprints a shortened version of the piece.

“A quiet but consequential shift is underway in the South Caucasus. With sustained diplomatic engagement, strategic investment, and a clear vision for regional connectivity, the United States is positioning itself not merely as a mediator between Armenia and Azerbaijan, but as an anchor of long-term stability.

Vice President JD Vance’s recent visits to Yerevan and Baku were more than just a historic milestone. They demonstrated Washington’s resolve to strengthen the peace agreement brokered by President Donald Trump in 2025, embedding it within a broader context of economic interdependence and energy security. The message was loud and clear: peace must be underpinned by infrastructure, trade, and opportunities.

In Armenia, the highlight of the visit was wrapping up negotiations on a civil nuclear cooperation agreement, often referred to as the “123 Agreement.” With potential commitments reaching up to $9 billion in exports and long-term contracts, this initiative provides Yerevan with a solid opportunity to modernize its energy sector while reducing its reliance on Russia.

For the United States, this agreement not only upholds non-proliferation standards but also boosts advanced technology exports, showcasing that American involvement can lead to real, positive outcomes.

The Baku leg of the visit underscored the importance of balance. Azerbaijan remains a pivotal energy supplier and a key link between Central Asia and Europe. The signing of a US-Azerbaijan Charter on Strategic Partnership, spanning economic cooperation, defense collaboration, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals, highlights a shared interest in stability and modernization.

Central to this vision is the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), an ambitious road-and-rail corridor designed to connect Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave and integrate the region into a broader east-west trade artery. By strengthening transport links that bypass traditional chokepoints, TRIPP could transform the South Caucasus from a zone of contestation into a corridor of commerce.

For Europe, enhanced connectivity bolsters energy security at a time of strategic uncertainty. For regional states, diversified transit routes expand options. For Israel — which maintains strong ties with Azerbaijan and growing regional interests — a stable and outward-looking Caucasus offers opportunities for economic cooperation and strategic alignment.

The overall outlook is quite promising. Instead of just reacting to crises as they arise, Washington is focusing on making lasting changes — like forming energy partnerships, enhancing defense cooperation, and investing in infrastructure projects that foster interdependence. This strategy shows a deeper understanding that lasting peace comes not just from diplomacy, but also from development.

Historically, the South Caucasus has been influenced by various empires and changing power dynamics. Today, it’s on the brink of a new model — one that emphasizes connectivity, sovereignty, and practical cooperation. By aligning strategic goals with economic opportunities, the United States is playing a key role in this transformation.

If the peace agreement is ratified and consistently implemented, the region could move towards a future marked by shared prosperity. The groundwork is being laid. With ongoing engagement and regional commitment, the South Caucasus could become a shining example of what sustained American diplomacy can achieve,” the article reads.