Armenian Assembly Urges U.S. to Support Justice and Security in Peace Talks

Washington, D.C. - Tomorrow’s meeting at the White House has been described as a historic opportunity to advance peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. We appreciate the engagement and vision in pursuing peace in the region. But for such a framework to succeed, it must address the serious and ongoing threats Armenia faces, including the continued presence of Azerbaijani forces on Armenian soil, the unresolved humanitarian crisis caused by the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh, and the ongoing detention of Armenian hostages.

Armenia enters these negotiations under pressure. Its leadership is navigating constant threats from Azerbaijan, whose president has openly referred to Armenia as “Western Azerbaijan.” This rhetoric signals future aggression and undermines any real chance at peace. At the same time, Armenian hostages remain in Azerbaijani prisons, securing their release must be a priority.

The United States has long stood for freedom of religion, democratic values, and the protection of vulnerable communities. We urge President Trump and Secretary Rubio to use America’s diplomatic and economic influence to help secure the release of all Armenian prisoners and to press for long-term guarantees that protect Armenia’s sovereignty and security.

Any lasting agreement must include real enforcement mechanisms. Security guarantees for Armenia should be backed by consequences if Azerbaijan violates the terms. We encourage the United States to continue growing its relationship with Armenia, including through military cooperation and expanded trade. Armenia can be a stable and democratic partner in a region that is otherwise dominated by unpredictable strongmen.

The 120,000 Armenians displaced from Artsakh during Azerbaijan’s 2023 offensive must not be forgotten. Their right to return home, live in safety, and rebuild their communities is essential to any peace that can be called just. Avoiding this issue would betray the core values that the United States has always upheld.

President Trump has promised to protect persecuted Christians and to end ethnic violence. As he and his administration pursue peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, we call on them to ensure that any agreement delivers on those promises, with binding commitments to justice, security, and Armenia’s long-term sovereignty.

Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a strictly non-partisan, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

NR# 2025-33

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