Talks around the “Trump Route” were a central topic during Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s recent visit to Russia. The project envisions new regional logistics solutions and the unblocking of transport communications. Political analyst Alen Gevondyan shared his assessment.
Russia’s growing activity on the Trump Route
According to Gevondyan, it is no coincidence that Russian officials have recently spoken publicly about cargo movement opportunities following the opening of logistics routes. These discussions include transportation through Azerbaijan toward Armenia and in the opposite direction.
The possibility of exporting goods from Armenia is also under consideration. At the same time, the Russian side claims that a non-existent railway segment in the Meghri section belongs to a Russian railway structure. Proposals to open new transport links have also been voiced.
Yerevan’s dual-track approach
Gevondyan believes that the current prime minister understands that Armenia is not in a competitive position in its relations with Russia. As a result, certain promises and statements are frequently made.
However, the expert notes that very different approaches are voiced on other platforms, especially in contacts with Western and U.S. partners. He recalls that Pashinyan rejected Russian mediation in the Armenian-Azerbaijani “peace agenda,” a decision that, according to Gevondyan, Moscow has not forgotten.
Moscow–Washington talks on the Trump Route
Gevondyan highlights another important factor. Moscow is also holding discussions with Washington on the Trump Route.
He argues that what the Armenian prime minister may underestimate is well understood by Russia’s leadership. Talks are underway regarding the format and status of Russia’s possible involvement in the process. Statements to this effect have already been made at the level of relevant divisions within Russia’s Foreign Ministry.
The context of a “big deal”
According to Gevondyan, these developments fit into a broader global process. The West, driven by U.S. business interests and strategic planning, is gradually expanding its presence in Eurasia. The Trump Route is one component of this strategy.
The beneficiaries, he says, include both global and regional actors. For Russia, room for manoeuvre is narrowing on one side, while new opportunities are opening on the other.
Gevondyan does not rule out a “big deal” in the near future at various levels. In this context, Armenia may act as a party offering commitments and attempting to leverage them with the West or regional players, particularly Turkey.