US-Armenia Defense Relations: Evolution and Challenges
The defense relationship between Armenia and the United States has undergone significant changes over the past two decades, marked by periods of active engagement and passive phases.
Initially, the early 2000s saw a surge in high-level meetings and tangible military cooperation. However, recent years, particularly under the tenure of Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikyan, have been less productive.
Papikyan's third visit to the United States, which took place on October 12, was his first under the Trump administration. Notably, there were no high-level meetings, including a meeting with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
No meeting between Papikyan and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth took place during the visit.
Author's Summary
US-Armenia defense relations have evolved over two decades with varying levels of engagement.
- Early 2000s: Increased high-level meetings and military cooperation
- Recent years: Less productive under Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikyan