Russia Awaits Details on 'Trump Route' Project

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Armenia, Sergey Kopyrkin, has clarified Moscow's position on the opening of the so-called "Trump route" in the southern part of Armenia, noting that a final opinion will be formed only after a full understanding of the details of the project's implementation.

Strengthening peace and stability in the South Caucasus is one of the unchanging priorities of Russia's foreign policy, the ambassador stated, emphasizing that within this logic, Moscow naturally supports any effort aimed at normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Referring directly to the "Trump route," Kopyrkin noted that Russia's position will be clarified after a detailed understanding is formed of how exactly this transport project will be implemented. "For now, as far as we know, the relevant work is just beginning. The details regarding the regimes of freight and passenger transportation and ensuring traffic safety are still pending."

The ambassador drew special attention to two important circumstances that must be taken into account in the work of unblocking transport communications in the region. The first is Armenia's membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). This implies that any new transport corridor must comply with the customs and legal regulations of the EAEU.

The second important factor, according to the ambassador, is the presence of Russian border guards on the Armenian-Iranian border, based on bilateral documents. This circumstance also requires consideration and coordination when developing the route's security and operational regimes.

Despite the existing uncertainties, Sergey Kopyrkin emphasized that the Russian side is open to consultations on these topics. He added that Moscow is ready to hold discussions with both Armenian partners and other interested parties, including Tehran. This statement indicates that Russia seeks to be involved in the process of discussing regional transport projects, ensuring the protection of its strategic and economic interests.