U.S. Secretary of State Rubio: Preventing an Invasion of Armenia Is a Top U.S. Foreign Policy Priority, Vows to Counter Azerbaijani Aggression

In a major moment for Armenia-U.S. relations, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the United States is committed to preventing an invasion of Armenia and prioritizing human rights and the release of Armenian prisoners. His comments came during a high-profile hearing of the Congressional Foreign Relations Committee earlier today.

Secretary Rubio made these remarks while answering questions from two longtime allies of the Armenian-American community: Congressman Chris Smith (Republican – New Jersey) and Congressman Jim Costa (Democrat – California). The hearing covered a wide range of international issues, but Armenia was placed front and center in the discussion.

Rubio said one of the main foreign policy goals of the Trump-Vance administration is supporting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, while clearly stating that “preventing an invasion of Armenia” is a key U.S. priority. He also stressed that human rights and the treatment of prisoners are central to U.S. diplomacy in the region.

These comments were welcomed by Armenian advocacy groups, including the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA). In a statement following the hearing, ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian said:

“We thank Congressmen Smith and Costa for raising the urgent need for stronger U.S. leadership in holding Azerbaijan accountable for its aggression and ongoing abuse of Armenian hostages. We welcome Secretary Rubio’s constructive response — in particular his assurance that the Trump-Vance Administration is committed to preventing an Azerbaijani invasion of Armenia and ensuring the release of Armenian prisoners.”

This hearing comes at a time when Armenia is working to secure its borders, strengthen its independence, and protect its people, especially after the devastating loss and occupation of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) in 2023, when more than 120,000 Armenians were forcibly displaced by Azerbaijan’s military assault.

For many in the Armenian-American community, today’s statement by Secretary Rubio is a hopeful sign that the U.S. is taking a stronger stance in defense of Armenia’s sovereignty and security. With growing concerns about another possible military attack by Azerbaijan, this commitment could help deter further aggression.

Why This Matters

• Armenia has no formal security guarantees, but depends on diplomacy and international pressure to prevent future attacks.

• Over two dozen Armenian prisoners are still held by Azerbaijan, many without charges or trial.

• The United States, as a global power and ally of Armenia, has a major role to play in promoting peace, justice, and accountability in the South Caucasus.

  
  

Today’s hearing is another example of how Armenian voices in Congress and in the diaspora are making a difference, pushing U.S. leaders to speak out and take action. The message from Washington is becoming clearer: A secure, sovereign Armenia matters — and the U.S. is watching closely.