UK Lifts 30-Year Arms Embargo on Armenia and Azerbaijan

The United Kingdom has lifted its more than 30-year arms embargo on Armenia and Azerbaijan — this is a major policy change.

The decision was announced in a written statement to the British Parliament by Minister of State for Europe, Stephen Doughty. This replaces the government’s earlier position from July 1, 2025, and officially ends the restrictions that were first imposed in 1992 during the outbreak of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

According to Doughty, the original reason for the embargo “has now fallen away” following recent progress between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The two neighboring countries signed a landmark peace declaration during the August 8 summit in Washington, hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump. The agreement included commitments to mutual recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity, ending decades of hostility.

Doughty described the peace process as a “pivotal moment” for the region and said the UK wants to support long-term cooperation between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The lifting of the embargo, he explained, is part of London’s broader effort to deepen its ties with both countries and to transform its relations into strategic partnerships.

Under the new approach, the UK plans to expand cooperation in trade, defense, and security. However, Doughty stressed that all military and dual-use exports will continue to be reviewed under strict British licensing rules. Any applications that do not meet the UK’s Strategic Export Licensing Criteria will still be denied.

The minister also said the UK will continue to closely monitor security developments in the South Caucasus. “This is a moment of opportunity for peace, security and prosperity in the South Caucasus,” Doughty stated. He added that Britain stands ready to work with Armenia, Azerbaijan, the United States, the European Union, and other partners to strengthen peace and regional stability.

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