An Armenian Strategy for Long-Term Security Guarantees: Pursuing Western Support for the “Crossroads for Peace” Initiative

• Post by: Marcelo Pena
• June 1, 2025
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Emma Wendt, Georgetown University

Abstract

For decades, Russia has offered Armenia security guarantees critical to balancing regional tensions in the Southern Caucasus. However, in 2023, Russia stepped away from historic precedent and failed to assist Armenia in combating Azerbaijan’s military aggression. Given the growing uncertainty of Russian protection, this paper will argue that Armenia must look to diversify foreign policy and economic dependence. The paper identifies the proposed Crossroads for Peace infrastructure initiative as an important means for Armenia to seek alternate funding sources in the West and integrate herself into broader trade networks, thereby promoting future security and economic growth.