Caucasus tensions have centered on the ongoing conflict in and around the regional mountains, drawing attention from leaders across the former Soviet space. In recent high-level discussions, top officials examined the lines that divide north from south, with representatives at a major Eurasian gathering watching closely as disagreements surfaced. At one point, disputes between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia, Ilham Aliyev and Nikol Pashinyan, escalated to a moment that required diplomatic intervention by the host, Russian President Vladimir Putin. Several ex-Soviet leaders attended and were taken aback by the heated exchange. Pashinyan challenged perceived Azerbaijani territorial ambitions, while Aliyev pressed for a direct answer to a pointed question about the content of Armenia’s speech. (Source: TASS)
Despite the moment of tension, both sides pursued a constructive dialogue focused on mutual recognition of territorial integrity. If this flashpoint can be defused, it could help stabilize one of the Caucasus region’s most volatile zones, historically marked by two wars and ongoing border frictions that predate the 1991 USSR dissolution. (Source: Internal briefings)
The central issue remains the Nagorno-Karabakh region, a territory inhabited primarily by Armenians yet internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan. Armenia has supported the enclave for years, even while not officially recognizing it as a separate state and during the 2020 war with Azerbaijan. Following recent statements, Armenia’s prime minister signaled a commitment to building momentum toward a regulated relationship, noting an interest in the well-being of Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh and expressing hope for a timely solution. Normal and constructive dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert continues to be the aim. (Source: News wires)
According to commentary from a former Armenian official, there is a recognition that any political agreement would require constitutional alignment in Armenia, including the possibility of delimitation and border adjustments. If such changes are contemplated, a referendum would be necessary under the Armenian constitution. This constitutional constraint was highlighted as a potential hurdle in the negotiation process. (Source: TASS transcription)
upcoming stops
Previously, Pashinyan indicated willingness to sign a peace treaty that acknowledges Azerbaijani sovereignty while safeguarding the Armenian population. Aliyev underscored a reciprocal path toward normalization of relations based on mutual recognition of territorial integrity. He also stressed that Azerbaijan would not pursue further land claims on Armenia. The possibility of a peace agreement remains, particularly in light of Armenia’s public posture toward Nagorno-Karabakh within Azerbaijan’s recognized borders. At the time of writing, leaders from Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Russia were continuing discussions in Moscow, with earlier talks in Brussels in progress to restart border talks and to explore rail link reopenings. (Source: Diplomatic briefings)