Armenia excludes Russia from US-backed Trump Route project

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has announced that Russia will not participate in the “Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity” (TRIPP), a strategic project designed to link Azerbaijan to its Nakhchivan exclave via Armenian territory.

Speaking at a press conference in Washington, Mirzoyan clarified that Moscow’s involvement was never on the table. “Russia’s participation in the project was not discussed,” Mirzoyan said. “The operational framework for TRIPP has already been finalized.”

While Mirzoyan noted that Yerevan is not seeking to “exclude” Moscow, he emphasized that opening regional transport links serves the interests of all neighbors. He pointed to Russia’s existing footprint in Armenia’s infrastructure, such as the railway network, suggesting this could create future opportunities for Russia to interface or cooperate with TRIPP.

Joint venture with US: Washington to hold majority stake

Mirzoyan and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio have ratified a memorandum to establish the “TRIPP Development Company.” This joint venture will hold development rights for the route for a period of 49 years.

Under the terms of the agreement, the US will hold a 74% stake in the company, while Armenia will hold 26%. It was noted that Yerevan’s share could potentially increase to 49% in the future.

According to a joint statement, the project aims to provide Armenia with investment and development opportunities while securing new transport corridors and markets for the US.

The Armenian government will maintain full control over its territory, laws, and borders, but it will provide active support to ensure the project’s progress. This includes responsibilities such as coordinating public institutions, managing permit processes, and working toward the normalization of relations with neighboring countries.

“Prosperity without compromising sovereignty”

Secretary of State Rubio underscored the project’s significance, stating, “TRIPP opens Armenia to trade and bolsters its economic prosperity, but it does so without compromising Armenia’s sovereignty in any way.”

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev reached an agreement on the implementation of the TRIPP project last August in Washington, following a declaration that sought to end regional hostilities.

The planned 42-kilometer route is expected to include the construction of road and rail links, as well as oil and gas infrastructure.