The U.S. Returns to the South Caucasus: From Peripheral Attention to Strategic Entrenchment
The upcoming visit of U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance to Azerbaijan signals a strategic shift in Washington’s approach to the South Caucasus. Moving beyond symbolic diplomacy, the Trump administration emphasizes direct engagement through infrastructure, security, and connectivity projects, positioning Azerbaijan as a central partner in a recalibrated regional strategy.
Azerbaijan–Israel as an Emerging Platform for Regional Cooperation
Azerbaijan–Israel relations are evolving into a multi-layered strategic platform combining energy interdependence, defense cooperation, technological integration, and regional expansion. Gideon Sa’ar’s recent visit to Baku confirms a shift toward project-driven cooperation and Central Asian market engagement, positioning the partnership as a scalable regional economic and institutional model.
Facts and Figures
In a Changing Eurasia: How Azerbaijan’s New Development Trajectory Is Taking Shape
Azerbaijan’s moderate growth reflects structural transition rather than economic weakness. The text highlights the limits of a mature hydrocarbon model, contrasts temporary post-2022 acceleration in Armenia and Georgia, and underscores the importance of expanding non-oil investment, productivity, export capacity, and regional integration to strengthen long-term resilience, competitiveness, and sustainable economic diversification.
What Will Shape the Dynamics of U.S.–Azerbaijan Relations in 2026
2025 marked a turning point in the South Caucasus, linking the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace process with deeper U.S.–Azerbaijan engagement. The end of the Karabakh conflict, suspension of Section 907, and institutionalization of the Zangezur route signaled a shift toward pragmatic, infrastructure-driven regional connectivity and strategic partnership under new post-conflict realities regionally.
Experts
