America's Wavering Stance: Mixed Messages in the South Caucasus
A Visit to the Armenian Genocide Memorial
Vice President JD Vance's recent trip to the South Caucasus has left more questions than answers. His visit to the Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan was significant. This memorial honors the 1.5 million Armenians killed in the early 1900s.
The U.S. has historically avoided calling it a genocide, but Vance did. Then, he deleted the post. Why?
Perhaps politics got in the way.
A Puzzle in Azerbaijan
Next, Vance traveled to Azerbaijan. This trip raised eyebrows. Azerbaijan has been pushing Armenians out of Nagorno-Karabakh. In 2023, nearly 120,000 Armenians fled.
Yet, Vance met with Azerbaijan's president and signed a deal. There were no strong words about human rights or the displaced Armenians.
U.S. Support: Words vs. Actions
The U.S. claims to support Armenians' rights. But actions speak louder than words.
- 2022 Blockade: Azerbaijan cut off food, medicine, and fuel in Nagorno-Karabakh.
- U.S. Response: Little to no action.
This taught Azerbaijan that aggression has no real consequences.
Mixed Signals
Vance's trip sent conflicting messages:
- To Azerbaijan: The U.S. will look the other way.
- To Turkey: Even recognizing genocide can be undone.
- To Armenians: U.S. support is shaky.
The Need for Clarity
For peace to last, the U.S. must be clear. Mixed messages don't keep peace—they invite more conflict.
The South Caucasus needs strong, consistent support for human rights, not vague promises and silent diplomacy.
