Fox News: Pashinyan Praises the New Agreement, Saying it Benefits Iran and Russia, Though Both Parties Remain Concerned

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan told Fox News in an interview that the recent ‘peace’ agreement with Azerbaijan could bring important economic benefits to Armenia and the wider region. He said that the deal could open new trade routes, including a potential railway linking Iran to the Black Sea and a corridor connecting Russia and Iran through the South Caucasus. He framed the agreement as a potential step toward stability and economic growth for Armenia.

“Our goal is to have stability, peace, development, and economic and political cooperation. This agreement is a very important and useful platform for that,” Pashinyan said.

However, the agreement includes a U.S.-supervised corridor through southern Armenia, which Azerbaijan aims to use to reach the Nakhijevan region. Pashinyan insists that the corridor respects Armenia’s borders and sovereignty, yet there is growing concern that it could increase Azerbaijan’s influence within Armenian territory. Some analysts argue that the route might be a strategic concession that could compromise national security over the long term.

Russia and Iran have also expressed caution regarding the project. Moscow stresses that the deal must not interfere with Armenia’s membership in the Eurasian Economic Union or undermine Russian border security in Syunik. Tehran has similarly sought assurances that its border connections will remain unaffected. The reactions make it clear that the region’s balance of power is fragile, and Armenia could be exposed to significant risks.

While Pashinyan talks about economic prospects, critics warn that the deal could tilt too far in favor of Azerbaijan, leaving Armenia vulnerable. Concerns are rising that the arrangement may weaken national sovereignty and give excessive leverage to a country that has historically been an adversary. Observers note that economic promises may not fully offset the security and territorial risks involved.

The agreement was formally signed in Washington on August 8, 2025, during a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, marking a high-profile diplomatic milestone but also sparking debate about its long-term implications for Armenia’s independence and stability.

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