Armenia to Hold Military Exercise with the United States amid the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

Armenia, a longtime ally of Russia in the South Caucasus region, has announced a joint military exercise with the United States against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The exercise, named “Eagle Partner 2023,” is scheduled to take place from September 11 to 20 and aims to stabilize conflicts and fulfill peacekeeping missions. This move is seen as a significant shift for Armenia, potentially indicating a distancing from its traditional partnership with Russia.

Historical Context

The dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh region has plagued Armenia and Azerbaijan for decades. Despite being located within Azerbaijani territory, the region is predominantly inhabited by ethnic Armenians. Access to Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia is maintained through the Lachin corridor, which has been blocked by Azerbaijan for months, exacerbating tensions between the two countries.

Ceasefire violations persist, even under the monitoring of Russian peacekeepers. In 2020, the conflict between the former Soviet republics escalated into a war that lasted six weeks and was ultimately resolved through a ceasefire brokered by Russia.

Current Humanitarian Crisis

Observers describe the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh as catastrophic, with shortages of essential supplies such as food and medicine. Since Wednesday, bread distribution has been restricted to those holding ration cards. Dissatisfaction with Russia’s role as a mediator has been growing among Armenian leaders. Eriwan accuses Moscow, which has long been seen as the protector of Armenians in the Caucasus, of insufficient efforts to address the crisis.

Armenia’s Change in Strategy

Earlier this year, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan canceled a planned military exercise with the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a military alliance dominated by Russia, deeming it futile. The joint military exercise with the United States is seen as another indication of Armenia’s shift away from Russia. The country is actively seeking the involvement of Western states in finding a resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Significance of US-Armenia Military Exercise

The joint military exercise between Armenia and the United States aims to enhance Armenia’s military capabilities, strengthen its partnerships, and demonstrate a clear commitment to security in the region. By conducting operations focused on conflict stabilization and peacekeeping missions, Armenia aims to address the ongoing insecurity in Nagorno-Karabakh and promote stability.

US Support for Armenia

The United States has been a vocal supporter of Armenia throughout the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited the region in May 2021 to reaffirm Washington’s commitment to assisting Armenia in overcoming security challenges. During his visit, Blinken announced an additional $25 million in military aid to Armenia, underscoring the United States’ intent to support the country’s defense needs.

International Efforts for Peace and Stability

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict necessitates international cooperation and mediation to achieve lasting peace and stability. The involvement of the United States through the joint military exercise with Armenia is part of these ongoing efforts. By strengthening Armenia’s military capabilities and fostering partnerships, this exercise showcases the commitment of the international community to resolving the longstanding dispute and preventing further escalation.

Armenia’s joint military exercise with the United States amid the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict signifies a significant shift in Armenia’s foreign policy alignment. As the country seeks to diversify its partnerships and engage with Western nations, this exercise underscores the United States’ steadfast support for Armenia’s security and its commitment to fostering peace and stability in the region. International cooperation remains crucial in finding a lasting resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and preventing future hostilities.