Anastasia Ryabokon 15:58, 03.05.26 UNIAN
The struggle for influence over energy and trade routes in the South Caucasus intensified after the start of the war in Iran
European summits, hosted by Armenia, indicate an intensification of the struggle for influence between Russia and the United States in the Caucasus . According to Bloomberg , the rivalry between the great powers is being waged for dominance in the energy sector and trade routes.
It is noted that wars in the Middle East and Ukraine are increasing the importance of the Caucasus, as routes to the north and south are limited by conflicts, sanctions, and geopolitical contradictions.
“Russia has long dominated the region, but has faced competition from the United States, Turkey, the European Union, and China,” the article says.
The authors cited the opinion of analyst Kate Mallinson, a partner at PRISM Strategic Intelligence in London, who believes that the US is showing unprecedented interest in the South Caucasus and that this has “forever undermined the Kremlin’s interests in Azerbaijan and Armenia.” In her opinion, the US is promoting the economic integration of the South Caucasus countries” and the expansion of these ties to Turkey and Central Asia.
On Monday, a meeting of the European Political Community will begin in Yerevan. The next day, the first summit of the European Union with Armenia will be held, the aim of which is to strengthen bilateral ties.
Last year, the government in Yerevan announced its intention to seek EU membership. According to the source of the publication, the EU plans to conclude a partnership agreement with Armenia in the field of transport infrastructure, which could include a financing package of up to 2.5 billion euros.
“The goal is to maintain transport, energy and digital links as regional borders open following the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan and warming relations with neighboring Turkey. According to the source, this helps to unite the region in the same way as cooperation in the coal and steel industries in Europe,” the authors write.
The bloc also intends to intensify security cooperation with Armenia, including by establishing a new civilian mission to advise on countering cyberattacks and disinformation.
Development of economic relations
Meanwhile, the United States is supporting the transport corridor, planning a partnership with Armenia to manage a rail and road route through the country’s south. The agreement demonstrates the United States’ long-term interest in the region. The agreement also extends to the development of oil and gas pipelines and fiber-optic networks for digital infrastructure.
“Global turmoil caused by disruptions to trade through the Persian Gulf due to the war in Iran is reinforcing its strategic importance,” the authors noted.
