On January 14, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan signed a comprehensive cooperation agreement in Washington. This agreement marks a significant pivot for Armenia, which seeks to strengthen ties with the West following challenges faced within Russian-led organizations.
The agreement addresses various sectors, including economic collaboration and the enhancement of democratic institutions, with a particular focus on security and defense. This development is seen as a response to Armenia's growing discomfort within the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), both dominated by Russia.
Amidst this backdrop, Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev is reportedly looking towards the West for support, especially in light of recent tensions with Russia. The signing of the agreement is not only a strategic move for Armenia but also reflects a broader geopolitical shift in the region, as countries reassess their alliances in a changing international landscape.
Armenia's recent legislative steps towards European Union integration further illustrate this shift, as the government aims to solidify its position amidst increasing Russian influence. The Kremlin has reacted with skepticism to Armenia's moves, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining dual membership in both the EAEU and the EU.
This agreement signifies a critical juncture for Armenia as it navigates its foreign relations in a region historically influenced by Russian power. The implications of this shift could reshape the geopolitical dynamics in the Caucasus and beyond.