Podcasts about south caucasus

Samuel Ramani is an Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) think tank in London and the CEO of Pangea Geopolitical Risk. Samuel is the author of Russia in Africa: Resurgent Great Power or Bellicose Pretender and Putin's War on Ukraine: Russia's Campaign for Global Counter-Revolution, which were published by Oxford University Press and Hurst in 2023. Samuel frequently advises the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, US Department of State, US Department of Defence, and NATO on defense and security issues, and is a regular contributor to the BBC World Service, Al Jazeera, CNN International, and Foreign Policy magazine.----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------LINKS:https://www.mei.edu/profile/samuel-ramani----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasWe need to scale up our support for Ukraine, and these events are designed to have a major impact. Your support in making it happen is greatly appreciated. All events will be recorded professionally and published for free on the Silicon Curtain channel. Where possible, we will also live-stream events.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------DESCRIPTION: Russia's Global Counter-Revolution: In-Depth Analysis with Samuel RamaniIn this episode, Jonathan interviews Samuel Ramani, an associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute and CEO of Pangea Geopolitical Risk. Ramani, author of books such as 'Russia in Africa' and 'Putin's War on Ukraine: Russia's campaign for Global Counter-Revolution,' discusses the overarching narrative behind Russia's global resurgence and counter-revolutionary efforts. They delve into the ideological and pragmatic motivations of Vladimir Putin, Russia's historical sense of humiliation, and Putin's strategic alignment with global far-right movements. The conversation also covers the implications of a potential post-war period in Ukraine and the future of Russian imperialism in regions like the Black Sea, Baltic Sea, and South Caucasus. Through detailed analysis, Ramani elucidates the complexities of Russia's domestic politics, its international strategies, and the sociopolitical forces that sustain Putin's regime.----------CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Samuel Ramani and His Work00:21 Overview of Russia's Global Counter-Revolution02:06 Putin's Historical Ambitions and Russian Identity05:06 Russian Ideology and the Invasion of Ukraine08:50 Generational Divide in Support for the War13:40 Economic Stability and Rising Ultra-Nationalism20:46 Putin's Pragmatism vs. Ideology25:57 Reconciling Contradictions and Promoting Sovereign Democracy27:14 Russia's Multipolar World and Sovereignty Contradictions29:45 Russian Propaganda and Anti-Western Sentiment32:08 The Evolution of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict36:04 Russia's Global Influence and Counter-Revolutionary Strategy41:10 Putin's Grip on Power and Potential Threats44:54 The Future of Russian Aggression and Global Stability50:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts----------

In this episode, Alexandra and Adam start off with some discussion on the news, including concerns over the upcoming Russia/Belarus Zapad 2025 military exercises, Slovakia's Robert Fico and his meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, and upcoming elections in Moldova.Later, Adam and Nina are joined by Thomas de Waal, a senior fellow with Carnegie Europe and expert on the South Caucasus. They discuss the peace deal which was initialed at the White House between Armenia and Azerbaijan and dig deeper as to what it means, who wins, who loses, and what might come next. Check out the guest's profile at: https://carnegieendowment.org/people/thomas-de-waal?lang=enRead Alexandra's piece on Bosnia and Herzegovina in Brief Eastern Europe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/p/september-8-2025 Support our work – become a patron:  www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope

James Nixey was lead at the Russia-Eurasia programme at Chatham House, and his principal expertise concerns the relationships between Russia and the other post-Soviet states. He has published papers and articles in books and journals and commented extensively in the national and global media. He has also organised hundreds of private expert round tables on Russian and Eurasian affairs while at Chatham House. Publications include The Long Goodbye: Waning Russian Influence in The South Caucasus and Central Asia, Putin Again: Implications for Russia and the West, and many others.----------LINKS:https://x.com/jamesnixey?lang=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/james-nixey/----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SILICON CURTAIN LIVE EVENTS - FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN Events in 2025 - Advocacy for a Ukrainian victory with Silicon Curtainhttps://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasOur events of the first half of the year in Lviv, Kyiv and Odesa were a huge success. Now we need to maintain this momentum, and change the tide towards a Ukrainian victory. The Silicon Curtain Roadshow is an ambitious campaign to run a minimum of 12 events in 2025, and potentially many more. Any support you can provide for the fundraising campaign would be gratefully appreciated. https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extrasWe need to scale up our support for Ukraine, and these events are designed to have a major impact. Your support in making it happen is greatly appreciated. All events will be recorded professionally and published for free on the Silicon Curtain channel. Where possible, we will also live-stream events.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------DESCRIPTION:Understanding Russia's Intentions: A Deep Dive with James NixeyIn this episode, Jonathan chats with James Nixey, former head of the Russia Eurasia program at Chatham House. They delve into Russia's relations with post-Soviet states, the miscalculations made by Western leaders about Russia's aims, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The conversation also touches on the cultural, political, and even psychological factors driving Russian policy. Additionally, Jonathan highlights the importance of the 'Kyiv of Mine' film series, which chronicles life in Ukraine from before the war to the present day. This insightful discussion sheds light on the broader implications of Russia's actions for global stability and Western values.----------CHAPTERS: 03:06 The Russian Perspective on Winning04:03 Russia's Endless Campaign06:31 Ukraine's Struggle and Western Response09:04 Personal Recommendation: Kiev of Mine12:17 Trump and Putin: A Comparison15:10 Russia's Influence and Global Perception23:28 Lessons from the Cold War25:43 Questioning Our Values and Convictions27:45 Escalation and Boundaries28:41 The Threat of Authoritarianism in Europe29:43 The Role of Culture and Nationalism33:53 Long-term Strategies of Russia and China42:41 The Weaponization of Russian Culture48:27 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action----------

War on Iran, Russia on TRIPP, New MPG Poll in Armenia, EconomyTopicsWar in IranRussia's Stance on TRIPPNew MPG Poll in ArmeniaArmenian Economy in H1/2025GuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 471 | Recorded: September 8, 2025Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

TRIPP down Zangezur Corridor, Armenian EconomyConversations on Groong - Recorded on: August 28, 2025TopicsPashinyan, Aliyev, in the White HouseWhat “Peace”?Armenian EconomyGuestProf. Jeffrey SachsHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 466 | Recorded: August 28, 2025Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

State Sovereignty Day, TRIPP Trap, Reactions, Kitchen SinkGroong Week in Review - August 24, 2025TopicsAugust 23: Armenia's declaration of State SovereigntyThe TRIPP TrapIran - Pezeshkian's VisitRussia - Overchuk's visitThe Kitchen SinkGuestTevan PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 464 | Recorded: August 25, 2025Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Will the so called peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan legitimize ethnic cleansing? Will it bring peace to the two nations? Or is it a recipe for future conflict? Military aggression and violations of of the notion of sovereignty have marked the conflicts in the South Caucuses region over the last three decades. Will the … Continue reading Scholars' Circle – US role in South Caucasus Armenia Azerbaijan peace treaty – August 24, 2025 →

Azerbaijan: Peace in the South Caucasus. Ambassador Elin Suleymanov 1890 BAKU

Azerbaijan: Peace in the South Caucasus. Ambassador Elin Suleymanov continued 1890 BAKU

Show Schedule 8-18-25 The show begins in Afghanistan, four years after America abandoned its allies. 1968 TET OFFENSIVE CBS Eye on the World with John Batchelor First Hour 9:00-9:15 Kabul: 4 years after. Bill Roggio, Husain Haqqani 9:15-9:30 Kabul: 4 years after. Bill Roggio, Husain Haqqani continued 9:30-9:45 Iran: Last ditch fatalism. Jonathan Sayeh, Bill Roggio, FDD 9:45-10:00 Iran: Last ditch fatalism. Jonathan Sayeh, Bill Roggio, FDD continued Second Hour 10:00-10:15 Syria: Turkey signs on. Ahmad Sharawi, Bill Roggio, FDD 10:15-10:30 Syria: Turkey signs on. Ahmad Sharawi, Bill Roggio, FDD continued 10:30-10:45 Hong Kong: POTUS understands Jimmy Lai's risk. Mark Simon. @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill 10:45-11:00 Canada: Does Carney have a China or India policy? Charles Burton @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill Third Hour 11:00-11:15 Azerbaijan: Peace in the South Caucasus. Ambassador Elin Suleymanov 11:15-11:30 Azerbaijan: Peace in the South Caucasus. Ambassador Elin Suleymanov continued 11:30-11:45 #NewWorldReport: Bolivia tacks right. Joseph Humire @JMHumire @SecureFreeSoc. Ernesto Araujo, former Foreign Minister Republic of Brazil. #NewWorldReportHumire. Alejandro Pena Esclusa, Venezuelan writer and geopolitical commentator. 11:45-12:00 #NewWorldReport: Mexico troubles. Joseph Humire @JMHumire @SecureFreeSoc. Ernesto Araujo, former Foreign Minister Republic of Brazil. #NewWorldReportHumire. Alejandro Pena Esclusa, Venezuelan writer and geopolitical commentator. Fourth Hour 12:00-12:15 Ukraine: Zelensky to the Oval Office. John Hardie, Bill Roggio, FDD 12:15-12:30 Ukraine: Zelensky to the Oval Office. John Hardie, Bill Roggio, FDD continued 12:30-12:45 PRC: Trump administration changes course on Nvidia to Beijing. Josh Rogin, WaPo 12:45-1:00 AM PRC: Trump administration changes course on Nvidia to Beijing. Josh Rogin, WaPo continued

Alaska Summit, Trump Corridor, Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Emerging Opposition “Our Way”/”Մեր Ձեվով”Groong Week in Review - August 17, 2025TopicsTrump-Putin Alaska SummitTrump Corridor PoliticsRussian-Azerbaijani RelationsRussian-Iranian RecalibrationNew Opposition Emerging - Our WayGuestSergei MelkonianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 463 | Recorded: August 18, 2025Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

The signing of a peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan in Washington has raised hopes of ending decades of conflict and reopening Turkey's border with Armenia. The deal, brokered by US President Donald Trump, commits both countries to respect each other's territorial integrity – the issue at the centre of bloody wars. The agreement is seen as paving the way for Turkey to restore diplomatic ties with Armenia. "Ankara has been promising that once there is a peace agreement, it will open the border," says Asli Aydintasbas, of the Washington-based Brookings Institution. "There was a brief period in the post-Soviet era when it [the border] was opened, but that was quickly shut again due to the Armenian-Azeri tensions." Aydintasbas says reopening the border could have wide-reaching consequences. "Armenia and Turkey opening their border and starting trade would be a historical moment in terms of reconciliation between these two nations, which have very bitter historic memories," she adds. "But beyond that, it would help Armenia economically because it's a landlocked country entirely dependent on Russia for its protection and its economy." Turning point In June, Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul. The meeting was seen as a turning point in relations long overshadowed by the memory of the 1915 Armenian Genocide, which Ankara still officially denies. "There's now a degree of personal chemistry between the Armenian prime minister and Erdogan. This was seen in a June historic meeting, the first ever bilateral contact, a face-to-face meeting," says Richard Giragosian, director of the Regional Studies Centre, a think tank in Yerevan. Turkey closed its border with Armenia in 1993 after ethnic Armenians in Azerbaijan seized the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. The enclave was retaken by Azerbaijani forces in 2022. Giragosian says the peace deal, along with warmer ties between Pashinyan and Erdogan, could now help Yerevan reach a long-sought goal. "In the longer perspective for Turkey and Armenia, this is about going beyond the South Caucasus. It's about Central Asia. It's about European markets, potentially a new Iran in the future," he says. Erdogan congratulated Pashinyan on Monday over the deal, but made no official pledge on reopening the border. That decision may lie with Azerbaijan's president, Ilham Aliyev. "They [Ankara] will be looking to Baku. Baku is basically able to tell Turkey not to move on normalisation with Armenia, not to open the border," says Aydintasbas. "Part of the reason is that Turkey has developed an economic dependency on Azerbaijan, which is the top investor in Turkey. In other words, little brother is calling the shots, and I think that Ankara, to an extent, does not like it, but has come to appreciate the economic benefits of its relationship with Azerbaijan." Azerbaijani demands on Armenia Azerbaijan is also pushing for changes to Armenia's constitution, which it claims makes territorial claims on Nagorno-Karabakh. "The Armenian constitution refers to the Declaration of Independence of Armenia, which has a clear clause on the unification with Armenia, with Nagorno-Karabakh," says Farid Shafiyev of the Centre for Analysis of International Relations, a Baku-based think tank. Shafiyev warned that without reform, the peace deal could unravel. "Let's say, imagine Pashinyan losing elections, a new person says: 'You know, everything which was signed was against the Armenian constitution.' For us, it is important that the Armenian people vote for the change of the constitution," Shafiyev says. Analysts note that changing the constitution would require a referendum with more than 50 percent turnout – a difficult and time-consuming process. Time, however, may be running short. Russia is seen as the biggest loser from lasting peace in the Caucasus. For decades Moscow exploited the conflict to play Armenia and Azerbaijan against each other. Pashinyan is now seeking to move away from Russian dominance and closer to Europe. Giragosian warned that Armenia's window of opportunity is limited. "There is a closing window of opportunity – that is Russia's distraction with everything in Ukraine. We do expect a storm on the horizon, with an angry, vengeful Putin reasserting or attempting to regain Russia's lost power and influence in the region." Weakening Russia's grip remains key, he adds. "Armenia, after all, is still a member of the Eurasian Economic Union, the Russian-dominated trade bloc. "But it's also a country that has a Russian military base. Russia still manages the Armenian railway network, for example. This is why, for Armenia, the real key here is going to be Turkey and normalising relations with Turkey." At present, Armenia's only open land borders are with Georgia and Iran – both close to Russia. Opening the Turkish border would give Armenia a vital new route, while also benefiting Turkey's economically depressed border region. But for now, Azerbaijan may seek further concessions before allowing any breakthrough.

Qarabag FK is not only a refugee football club but also the most successful team in Azerbaijan. Located in Baku, they originally hail from the 'ghost' city of Aghdam, in the Nagorno Karabakh region of the South Caucasus. When a war broke out between Azerbaijan and Armenia in the late 1980s, Armenia forces seized Nagorno Karabakh - a disputed territory that both countries claim - and laid waste to Aghdam. The club relocated to the Azerbaijani capital of Baku and rebuilt. But after the second Nagorno Karabakh war, which Azerbaijan won, the government has begun to rebuild Aghdam at breakneck speed. The centre-piece will be Qarabag's regenerated former stadium. The football club is a symbol of an Azerbaijani return to lands the government describes as "unlawfully stolen". But as one team returns, another has been forced out. Lernayin Artsakh FC was based in Stepanakert. As Azeri troops bore down on the city in September 2023, its players, officials and families fled for Armenia, an act that the Armenian government called "ethnic cleansing". The team is now based in Armenia, playing in the second division.As one team prepares to return to a city they once fled, another prepares for a life in exile. James Montague travels to Nagorno Karabakh to visit the two refugee football clubs who once played in the same league but who have come to represent division and displacement in the region. Presenter: James Montague Producer and Sound Mix: Ben Wyatt A Comuniqe production for the BBC World Service.(Image Credit: James Montague A no-score draw in Nagorno Karabakh

Conversations on Groong - August 16, 2025In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with analyst Hamid Bahrami about Iran's shifting role in the South Caucasus following the White House meeting between Trump, Pashinyan, and Aliyev that unveiled the TRIPP corridor, also known as the Trump Route. We examine how the project threatens to bypass and encircle Iran, potentially cutting it off from Russia and the Black Sea, while serving broader US and Israeli strategic aims. The discussion explores Iran's decades of passivity in the region, its missed opportunities, and the wake-up call of the 44-day war, before turning to how Tehran might now defend its red lines through deeper cooperation with Russia, China, and Armenia. Topics:TRIPP Corridor & US InvolvementUS-Israel Strategy & War RisksIran's Missed Opportunities & ShiftsFuture of Iran–Armenia RelationsHamid Bahrami's article published by the Institute for Iran and Eurasia Studies (IRAS) in Iran: https://www.iras.ir/%D8%B2%D9%86%DA%AF%D8%B2%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%8C-%D9%86%D9%82%D8%B7%D9%87-%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%81%D8%AC%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D8%AF%D8%B1-%D9%82%D9%81%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%B2-%D8%B5%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%AA%D8%A8%D9%86 Guest: Hamid BahramiHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 461 | Recorded: August 13, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/461VIDEO: https://youtu.be/lTYVEAuZ8fc#ArmenianNews #Iran #Armenia #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridorSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In EVN Report's news roundup for the week of August 15: what the Washington Accords promise to bring to the South Caucasus; family of billionaire Samvel Karapetyan launches a $500 million investment arbitration against Armenia; as the Nubarashen landfill burns, the Yerevan Municipality announces plans for Armenia's first waste recycling plant.

In EVN Report's news roundup for the week of August 15: what the Washington Accords promise to bring to the South Caucasus; family of billionaire Samvel Karapetyan launches a $500 million investment arbitration against Armenia; as the Nubarashen landfill burns, the Yerevan Municipality announces plans for Armenia's first waste recycling plant. The post What Will Washington Accords Bring to the South Caucasus appeared first on EVN Report.

On August 8, the leaders of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the United States signed landmark agreements in Washington aimed at closing a chapter on decades of conflict and paving the way for normalization, economic connectivity and stability. Nerses Kopalyan joins us to explore how these accords came to be, the challenges and concerns they face, and the opportunities they present for the region's future.

#cuttheclutter Armenia & Azerbaijan last week signed joint declaration in the US, agreeing to respect each other's territorial integrity. The highlight of the ‘peace' move brokered by Trump is the creation of the 43-km Zangezur corridor, which will be developed by American companies and called Trump Route For International Peace & Prosperity. ThePrint Editor-In-Chief Shekhar Gupta explains what the Trump-brokered peace agreement means, significance of Trump corridor, why it has Iran fuming & the shift in geopolitics in the South Caucasus. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To Watch Episode 580 of Cut The Clutter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LW4j2MP29ns --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To Watch CTC on Diego Garcia : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBIzjMJv2t4 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To visit ThePrint Store: https://store.theprint.in/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Produced By: Mahira Khan

For review:1. Australia will recognize a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Monday.2. Israel - Hamas Hostage & Ceasefire Negotiations Could Restart This Week. Israel may send negotiators to Doha this week for meetings on a comprehensive agreement for the release of hostages held by Hamas and a ceasefire in Gaza.3.  New US CENTCOM Commander. Incoming Commander US Navy Admiral Brad Copper replaced US Army General Michael Kurilla. 4.  President Trump to Meet with Russian President Without Ukraine. 5. Azerbaijan has warned that it could lift its arms embargo on Kyiv- if Russia keeps targeting energy infrastructure in Ukraine linked to the South Caucasus country.Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, Azerbaijan has refrained from transferring weapons to either side. 6. Finland has planned a live-firing event to assess the potential of laser-guided artillery munitions. The demonstration event is planned for the fourth quarter of 2026.7. Japan & Philippine Defense Agreement starts next month. The agreement will permit troops from both countries to train within their respective territorial waters, territories, and air spaces.8. A China Coast Guard vessel and People's Liberation Army Navy ship crashed into each other in the South China Sea on Monday while chasing a Philippine Coast Guard vessel.

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In today's episode, we cover Trump Targets Crime and Homelessness in DC Following a brutal attack on a former Trump employee in Washington DC, the president will announce sweeping plans to clean up the city. Proposals may include evicting the homeless, involuntary psychiatric commitments, and even federalizing DC's governance. Bryan unpacks the root causes of the capital's lawlessness, from broken families to weak criminal enforcement. Putin-Trump Peace Talks Face Global Pushback The Russian president is set to meet Trump in Alaska on Friday to discuss ending the Ukraine war. Putin's demands include control of Donbas and Crimea, but Europe, Zelenskyy, and China all oppose the proposed “Alaska Protocol.” Bryan examines why some say this could be a diplomatic breakthrough, while others see it as a Kremlin ploy. China and India Undercut U.S. Strategy China openly declares it wants Russia to win in Ukraine to keep America distracted. India deepens its ties with Moscow despite new U.S. tariffs, canceling American weapons purchases and strengthening the BRICS alliance. Trump's New “Peace Corridor” Rattles Iran and Russia Last week's U.S.-brokered peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan creates the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity — a new corridor for oil, gas, and trade running close to Iran's borders. Tehran threatens to turn it into a “graveyard for Trump's mercenaries,” while Moscow warns against foreign meddling. The Great Game for Global Power From Ukraine to the South Caucasus, from India to China's Pacific shores, a new geopolitical contest is underway. Bryan outlines how foreign powers may try to sabotage U.S. influence at home and abroad, including covert propaganda, political funding, and infiltration through the southern border. "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32

Conversations on Groong - August 9, 2025In this episode, former U.S. Army officer and military-political analyst Stanislav Krapivnik discusses the geopolitical fallout from the Trump-Pashinyan-Aliyev summit in Washington, which saw the announcement of a "peace" framework, the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group, U.S. plans for a 99-year "Trump Corridor" across Armenia, and the dropping of Section 907 to allow arms sales to Azerbaijan. He examines Russia's heavy focus on the Ukraine war at the expense of the South Caucasus, the loss of Russian leverage over Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the growing role of Turkey. Krapivnik warns of U.S. and British designs to destabilize the region, outlines possible Russian and Iranian responses, and explores the strategic importance of Georgia, the Abkhazia railway, and regional connectivity. The conversation also delves into Armenia's domestic political challenges, the influence of Western NGOs, and the erosion of core national institutions.Topics:Trump, Pashinyan, Aliyev DC SummitUkraine War and the Shifting World OrderRussia and the South CaucasusGuest: Stanislav KrapivnikHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 458 | Recorded: August 9, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/458VIDEO: https://youtu.be/d37MqzjkV8A#ArmenianNews #SouthCaucasus #Trump #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #RussiaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

What's the fallout from a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia? The US brokered the deal, giving it leverage and business opportunities. But will it hold? And what will Washington's growing presence in the South Caucasus mean for the region? In this episode: Vasif Huseynov - Head of Department at the The Center of Analysis of International Relations (Air Center). Jamila Mammadova - Research Assistant at the Henry Jackson Society. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan - Political Analyst. Host: James Bays Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Israel's Security Cabinet approved a plan on Friday to take control of Gaza City. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement that the Israeli military "will prepare to take control of Gaza City while providing humanitarian aid to the civilian population outside the combat zones." Israel's cabinet is expected to endorse the Gaza City plan.President Donald Trump will host a signing ceremony at the White House on Friday for a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The two nations have engaged in cross-border conflicts since the late 1980s. Trump will also sign bilateral economic agreements with the two countries. He says the agreements will fully unlock the South Caucasus's potential. The energy-rich region neighbors Turkey, Georgia, Iran, and Russia.

Public Trust in Freefall, Church on the Rise, and Corridor Pressures MountGroong Week in Review - July 27, 2025TopicsCorridor LogicCrackdown LogicIRI PollRussian in the South CaucasusGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 456 | Recorded: July 28, 2025Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Azerbaijan is increasingly engaging in tit-for-tat actions towards powerful neighbour Russia amid escalating tensions in the South Caucasus region. This comes as Baku deepens its military cooperation with long-standing ally Turkey. In a highly publicised move, Azerbaijani security forces in Baku recently paraded seven arrested Russian journalists – working for the Russian state-funded Sputnik news agency – in front of the media. Their detentions followed the deaths last month of two Azerbaijani nationals in Russian custody, which sparked public outrage in Baku. "That was quite shocking for Baku, for Azerbaijani society – the cruelty of the behaviour and the large-scale violence," Zaur Gasimov of the German Academic Exchange Service, a professor and expert on Azerbaijani-Russian relations told RFI. "And the Russian-wide persecution of the leaders of Azerbaijani diasporic organisations took place (this month)," he added. Tit-for-tat tactics Tensions between Russia and Azerbaijan have been simmering since December, when Russian air defences accidentally downed an Azerbaijani passenger aircraft. Baku strongly condemned Moscow's lack of an official apology. The deaths in custody, which Moscow insisted were from natural causes, and the broader crackdown on Azerbaijan's diaspora are being interpreted in Baku as deliberate signals. "This kind of news had to frighten Azerbaijani society, which is aware of the fact that around two million ethnic Azeris with Azerbaijani and Russian passports are living in the Russian Federation," explained Gasimov. "So the signal is that we can oust them, and they would come to Azerbaijan. That should be an economic threat." Gasimov noted that while Baku may have previously backed down in the face of Russian pressure, this time appears different. "The reaction of Azerbaijan was just to react, with tit-for-tat tactics," he said. Shifting power in Caucasus Baku's self-confidence is partly attributed to its military success in 2020, when it regained control over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region and adjacent territories from Armenian forces after a six-week war. "The South Caucasus is changing," noted Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the Baku-based Centre for Analysis of International Relations. Shafiyev argues that the era of Moscow treating the region as its backyard is over. "Russia cannot just grasp and accept this change because of its imperial arrogance; it demands subordination, and that has changed for a number of reasons. First of all, due to the Russian-Ukrainian war, and second, due to the trajectory of events following the collapse of the Soviet Union. The third very important factor is Turkey," added Shafiyev. Turkey, a long-standing ally of Azerbaijan, has significantly increased military cooperation and arms sales in recent years. Turkish-made drones played a key role in Azerbaijan's 2020 military campaign. In 2021, the Shusha Declaration was signed, committing both nations to mutual military support in the event of aggression. Turkey also plans to establish one of its largest overseas military bases in Azerbaijan. "A very strong relationship with Ankara, marked by strong cooperation in the economic and military fields for decades, as also outlined in the Shusha Declaration several years ago, is an asset and one of the elements of Azerbaijan's growing self-confidence," said Gasimov. Azerbaijan and Turkey build bridges amid declining influence of Iran Strategic rivalries  Turkey's expanding influence in the South Caucasus – at Russia's expense – is the latest in a series of regional rivalries between the two powers. Turkish-backed forces countered a Russian-aligned warlord in Libya, and Turkey-supported factions have contested Russian influence in Syria. These confrontations have strained the once-close ties between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "No doubt that the Putin-Erdogan relationship is not as good as it used to be because we've either instigated or become participants in events in the South Caucasus and Syria," said analyst Atilla Yeşilada of Global Source Partners. Growing military buildup in Azerbaijan and Armenia a concern for peace talks Nevertheless, Yesilada believes pragmatism will prevail – for now – given Turkey's dependence on Russian energy and trade. "The economic interests are so huge, there is a huge chasm between not being too friendly and being antagonistic. I don't think we've got to that point. If we did, there would be serious provocations in Turkey," he warned. Until now, Turkish and Russian leaders have largely managed to compartmentalise their differences. However, that approach may soon face its toughest test yet, as Azerbaijan remains a strategic priority for Turkey, while Russia has long considered the Caucasus to be within its traditional sphere of influence. "We don't know what will be Russia's next target. We cannot exclude that Russia might be quite assertive in the South Caucasus in the future," warned Shafiyev. "I think the easiest way is to build friendly relationships and economic partnerships with the countries of the South Caucasus. Unfortunately, Moscow looks like it's not ready for a partnership. But if it's ready, we would welcome it," he added.

Conversations on Groong - July 24, 2025TopicsEU Strategy in the South CaucasusAttacks on the National Church(es)2025 Local Election PoliticsGuestArchil SikharulidzeHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 454 | Recorded: July 22, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/454VIDEO: https://youtu.be/r1tgtP-d0lE#ArmenianNews #SouthCaucasus #Georgia #Armenia #EUSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Max and Maria are joined by Richard Giragosian and Jeffrey Mankoff to talk about the current geopolitical moment in the South Caucasus, with a particular focus on the dynamics at play in the relationships between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia. This conversation was recorded on July 9, 2025.

Groong Week in Review - July 13, 2025TopicsPashinyan meets Aliyev in Abu DhabiContinued Persecution of Church and OppositionHostsHovik Manucharyan Asbed BedrossianEpisode 453 | Recorded: July 13, 2025Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

SHOW SCHEDULE 7-10-25 Good evening. The show begins in the South Caucasus, learning that a PRC tunneling company is at work building a roadway from China to Europe via Russia... CBS EYE ON THE WORLD WITH JOHN BATCHELOR FIRST HOUR 9:00-9:15 GEORGIA AND THE PRC. Anatol Lieven. 9:15-9:30 UKRAINE: MOSCOW LOSES FAVOR IN WASHINGTON. Anatol Lieven. 9:30-9:45 CHIPS: DEI DEPARTS THE FABS. 9:45-10:00 SCOTUS: SLOWLY THE UNCONSTITUTIONAL ORDER MOVES THE CAMPUS. Tal Fortgang, Civitas. SECOND HOUR 10:00-10:15 PRC: THE RUMORS OF XI. Victoria Herczegh. 10:15-10:30 PRC: THE RUMORS OF XI. Victoria Herczegh, continued. 10:30-10:45 JAPAN: DEFENSE HESITATION. Grant Newsham. 10:45-11:00 NYC: CASTRO LITE, CHAVEZ LIGHTER. Mary Anastasia O'Grady. THIRD HOUR 11:00-11:15 #NEWWORLDREPORT: BRAZIL AND LULA'S DUCK. Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @REVANELLIS #NEWWORLDREPORTELLIS 11:15-11:30 #NEWWORLDREPORT: COPPER TRADE. Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @REVANELLIS #NEWWORLDREPORTELLIS 11:30-11:45 #NEWWORLDREPORT: BUENOS AIRES CONFIDENCE. Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @REVANELLIS #NEWWORLDREPORTELLIS 11:45-12:00 SURINAME RISING. #NEWWORLDREPORT: Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @REVANELLIS #NEWWORLDREPORTELLIS FOURTH HOUR 12:00-12:15 CONGRESS: HSAs GROWING. Veronique de Rugy. 12:15-12:30 CANADA: PROSPERITY IS THE NEW GOAL. Conrad Black, National Post. 12:30-12:45 HOTEL MARS: LUNAR HABITATS, MARS HABITATS. Haym Benaroya, David Livingston. 12:45-1:00 AM HOTEL MARS: LUNAR HABITATS, MARS HABITATS. Haym Benaroya, David Livingston, continued.

PREVIEW: SOUTH CAUCASUS: Colleague Anatol Lieven reports the PRC is building a vast tunnel for a truck road from China to Russia and farther. More to come. 1900 TBLISI

Groong Week in Review - July 6, 2025In this episode of the Groong Podcast, we are joined by Arthur Martirosyan for a Week in Review covering Armenia's shifting geopolitical landscape and domestic upheaval. The discussion explores the controversial proposal for a U.S.-controlled corridor through Syunik, tensions between Russia and Azerbaijan, and Pashinyan's escalating confrontation with the Armenian Apostolic Church. The show also examines Armenia's foreign policy confusion, including talk of joining the SCO, while cracking down on opposition voices—most notably the stripping of immunity from Seyran Ohanyan and Artsvik Minasyan. Against this backdrop, the episode questions the erosion of sovereignty, the use of legal tools for political ends, and the uncertain future of Armenia's democratic and constitutional order.TopicsConstitution DayWestern Controlled Syunik?What was Kallas Doing in Yerevan?Russian-Azerbaijani RelationsCoup d'Etat? Or Coup d'Église?GuestArthur G MartirosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 452 | Recorded: July 7, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/452Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's June visit to Turkey marks the latest step in the ongoing rapprochement between the two countries. The move comes as Ankara seeks to expand its influence in the Caucasus, amid the waning power of regional rivals Iran and Russia. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's hosting of Pashinyan in Istanbul last month represents a notable diplomatic effort to normalise relations. Ankara had severed diplomatic ties and closed its border with Armenia in 1993 following the war between Armenia and Turkey's close ally, Azerbaijan, over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. However, Pashinyan's Istanbul visit is being hailed as groundbreaking. “I believe it was very significant for several reasons. It was the first bilateral diplomatic summit between the Turkish and Armenian leaders,” explains Richard Giragosian, Director of the Regional Studies Centre, a Yerevan-based think tank. Until now, interactions between the two leaders had been limited to multilateral engagements—such as Erdoğan's inauguration and meetings on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. But Giragosian argues that the Istanbul meeting carries deeper significance. “This is the first bilateral invitation from Turkey to the Armenian leader. That reflects a second important development: Turkey is seeking to regain its options with Armenia,” observes Giragosian. Armenia looks to reopen border with Turkey as potential gateway to the West Zangezur corridor at centre One of the key issues discussed was the creation of a land bridge through Armenia to connect Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave, which borders Turkey. Known as the Zangezur Corridor, this project is a strategic priority for Ankara. It would not only link Turkey directly to its key ally and vital trade partner Azerbaijan, but also open a new route for Turkish goods to Central Asia. “It is especially important now from an economic standpoint,” notes international relations professor Hüseyin Bağcı of Ankara's Middle East Technical University. Pashinyan's visit is seen as part of a broader Turkish diplomatic push to secure regional support for the Zangezur Corridor. “This is why Prime Minister Pashinyan came to Turkey,” says Bağcı, who suggests Erdoğan is attempting to counter Iranian resistance. “The Zangezur Corridor should not be held hostage by Iranian opposition. It shouldn't be conditional on Iran's stance,” he adds. Iran, Armenia's powerful neighbour, strongly opposes the corridor. Currently, Turkish goods must transit through Iran to reach Central Asia—giving Tehran significant leverage. Iran has often restricted this trade during periods of diplomatic tension with Ankara. More critically, Tehran fears the proposed 40-kilometre corridor would cut off a vital route it uses to bypass international sanctions. Despite Turkish diplomatic efforts, Iran remains firmly opposed. “Nothing has changed in Tehran's position regarding the Zangezur Corridor. Iran is still against the project,” warns Prof Dr Zaur Gasimov of the German Academic Exchange Service. Growing military buildup in Azerbaijan and Armenia a concern for peace talks Gasimov notes, however, that recent geopolitical developments—particularly Israel's ongoing conflict with Iran—have shifted the regional balance in Ankara's favour. “As of July 2025, Iran's diplomatic, political, and military capabilities are far more constrained than they were just a few years ago, due to Israel-led and US-led operations,” says Gasimov. “In both military and political terms, Iran is now significantly limited.” Yet Azerbaijan's insistence that the Zangezur Corridor operate independently of Armenian control remains a major sticking point for Yerevan, says Giragosian. Still, he believes the broader aim of establishing a new trade route—combined with Turkey's willingness to reopen its border—offers the region both economic incentives and a path towards stability through mutual dependence. “The reopening of closed borders, and the creation of trade and transport links, reshapes strategic thinking. It makes any renewal of hostilities far more costly,” says Giragosian. “In this context, it lifts all boats. It's a win-win for everyone,” he continues. “And I do think the real sticking point now will be Russia's reaction, more than any resistance from Turkey, Armenia, or Azerbaijan.” Russia and Iran push back Initially, Moscow supported the Zangezur Corridor, particularly since Russian personnel were envisioned to administer it under the original proposals. But Gasimov notes that Russia's enthusiasm has cooled as it grows increasingly wary of Turkey's expanding influence in a region it still considers part of its traditional sphere. “Moscow is very concerned about Ankara–Yerevan relations. Turkey, after all, is a NATO member—even if Russia cooperates with it in several areas,” says Gasimov. France pushes for peace in the Caucasus amid heat over Iran detainees   Despite being heavily engaged in its war in Ukraine, Gasimov suggests Russia still has leverage in the South Caucasus “After three years of war and sweeping sanctions, Russia's capabilities in the region are diminished. But it continues to try to assert itself—by intimidating vulnerable regional economies and exploiting internal political instability, as it did in Armenia just two weeks ago,” says Gasimov. Last month, Armenian security forces arrested several opposition figures, claiming to have foiled a coup attempt. As Moscow remains bogged down in Ukraine, Yerevan may have only a limited window of opportunity to capitalise on Russia's distraction and weakness. “We do see a storm on the horizon,” warns Giragosian. “With an angry and vengeful Putin lashing out at Russia's neighbours, he's seeking to reassert Russian power and influence across the near abroad—from Central Asia to the South Caucasus.” Armenia reconsiders alliances Giragosian argues that such threats could be the catalyst for historic diplomatic realignments. “From an Armenian perspective, it's deeply ironic. For decades, Armenia feared Turkey and turned to Russia for protection. Now, Armenia is looking to Turkey for a greater role—and seeking to distance itself from the Russian orbit.” Pashinyan has made no secret of his intent to pivot Armenia away from Russia and towards Europe. But with neighbouring Georgia increasingly under Moscow's sway, and with Iran and Azerbaijan offering few viable alternatives, Turkey may now represent Armenia's best chance to achieve that strategic realignment.

Abkhazia stands at a critical juncture, caught between its historical dependence on Russia and the uncertain allure of reconciliation with Georgia. Long overshadowed by Moscow's influence, recent years have seen the territory's population increasingly frustrated with Russia's heavy-handed presence, just as Tbilisi tentatively begins exploring pathways to re-engagement. Could growing anti-Russian sentiment signal a geopolitical realignment in the South Caucasus? Will Abkhazia tilt back toward Georgia, upsetting decades of frozen conflict dynamics? And why, despite mounting tensions and economic costs, does Moscow remain committed to maintaining its grip on this disputed strip of Black Sea coastline? To unpack these questions and understand the future of Abkhazia, we turn to our panel of experts: On the panel this week: - Laura Linderman (Central Asia-Caucasus Institute) - Beka Bajelidze (Institute for War and Peace) - Thomas de Waal (Carnegie Europe) Intro - 00:00 PART I - 03:49 PART II - 30:49 PART III - 1:00:15 Outro - 1:21:46 Follow the show on https://x.com/TheRedLinePod Follow Michael on https://x.com/MikeHilliardAusSupport the show at: https://www.patreon.com/theredlinepodcast Submit Questions and Join the Red Line Discord Server at: https://www.theredlinepodcast.com/discord For more info, please visit: https://www.theredlinepodcast.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when your father's underground Bible ministry shapes the path you never expected to take?In this episode of the 55:11 Podcast, Dirk Smith and Brooke Kehl sit down with Rostyslav Stasyuk—a husband, father, and global ministry leader with deep roots in faith. Rostyslav shares how his family's legacy and his cross-cultural experiences led him to join EEM as the Regional Director for South Caucasus and Central Asia, where he now helps distribute Bibles, This heartfelt conversation touches on the importance of Scripture in someone's mother language, the powerful role of prayer, and the impact of the Bible in places where faith comes at a cost. Rostyslav also shares how the war in Ukraine has both challenged and strengthened his faith, as well as what it means to disciple others, even in isolation.Whether you're a parent, a ministry leader, or someone looking for hope in hard seasons, this episode will leave you encouraged.Show Notes:Follow us on: PRAY.COMConnect with EEM:EEM WebsiteEEM FacebookEEM LinkedInEEM InstagramEEM Media

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan visited Turkey late last week for talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the first formal meeting of its kind and a move Yerevan described as a "historic" step. Despite previous efforts - and a slew of concessions by Pashinyan to both Azerbaijan and Turkey over the past years - there has been little tangible progress in normalizing relations. Dr. Laurence Broers, an associate fellow in the Russia and Eurasia Program at Chatham House and an expert on the South Caucasus region, joins Thanos Davelis as we take a closer look at this normalization effort.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Armenia's Pashinyan, Turkey's Erdogan to hold 'historic' talks amid Iran-Israel warArmenian PM Pashinyan meets Erdogan in Turkey on 'historic' visitArmenian prime minister discusses reconciliation with Erdogan in landmark Turkey visitPM touts defense spending at NATO summitLibya, Turkey sign MoU on offshore areas, Athens reiterates rejection

Conversations on Groong - June 23, 2025TopicsIsrael's war on Iran and U.S. involvementRisks of Iranian regime change or partitionStrategic dangers to ArmeniaGuestArman GrigoryanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 448 | Recorded: June 21, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/448VIDEO: https://youtu.be/jKvIM3J57rw#IranIsraelWar #IsraelIranConflict #Iran #Israel #IsraelConflict #Armenia #USForeignPolicy #Geopolitics #MiddleEastCrisisSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - June 16, 2025In this episode of Conversations on Groong, we speak with Fyodor Lukyanov, editor-in-chief of Russia in Global Affairs, to analyze the geopolitical fallout from Israel's surprise military campaign against Iran, known as Operation Rising Lion. We explore how the attacks may sabotage U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations, shift Russia's strategic calculus, and destabilize the South Caucasus—particularly Armenia's Syunik province. We also examine the implications for Russia-Iran relations, the "Zangezur Corridor", and Azerbaijan's military posture. Finally, we discuss Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb, recent Russian rhetoric labeling Ukraine a terrorist state, and whether Moscow is preparing to escalate its war effort.Topics:Israel hits Iran, talks collapseArmenia at risk if Iran weakensRussia hardens stance on UkraineGuest:Fyodor Lukyanov (Фёдор Алекса́ндрович Лукья́нов)Hosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 447 | Recorded: June 15, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/447VIDEO: https://youtu.be/aNoYaXZrwhQ#RisingLion #IsraelIranConflict #RussiaIranAlliance #ZangezurCorridor #UkraineWarSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - June 1, 2025In this episode of Groong's Week in Review, recorded on June 2, 2025, guest Benyamin Poghosyan joins hosts Hovik Manucharyan and Asbed Bedrossian to unpack a tense and volatile week in both regional and domestic politics. The conversation opens with rising tensions in the Ukraine war, as drone strikes reach deep into Russia, Germany lifts missile restrictions, and Trump labels Putin “crazy,” all while Iran nuclear talks remain frozen under hardline U.S. demands. The focus then shifts to the South Caucasus, where Turkish FM Hakan Fidan met Lavrov in Moscow to push the “3+3” platform and floated Istanbul as a summit venue for global powers. Meanwhile, Erdogan, Aliyev, and Pakistan's PM Sharif staged a PR spectacle in Lachin to inaugurate a third airport in occupied Artsakh, signaling strategic realignments. Back in Armenia, the Pashinyans launched harsh verbal attacks on the Armenian Church just as Baku's Grand Mufti claimed Etchmiadzin as Azerbaijani land, prompting questions of tacit coordination. The episode also revisits the impeachment debate versus opposition planning for the 2026 elections, probing whether security and corruption can drive real political traction. Finally, the hosts spotlight the rise of regime-aligned oligarch Narek Nalbandyan, whose sweetheart deals, state-enabled asset grabs, and government-backed expansion raise serious concerns about the erosion of anti-corruption values in Armenia today.TopicsStatus of Ukraine and US-Iran CrisesHakan Fidan in MoscowErdogan, Aliyev, Sharif in LachinAzerbaijan and Pashinyan Attack the Armenian ChurchImpeachment vs. ElectionsThe Kitchen SinkGuest: Benyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 442 | Recorded: June 2, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/442VIDEO: https://youtu.be/oo_B7xhOVlMSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - May 25, 2025Topics:May 28, Republic DayArmenia's EU-Russia policy confusionConstitutional changes for “peace”Impeachment vs. election dilemmaAzeri invasion threat and silenceGuestArthur KhachatryanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 441 | Recorded: May 28, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/441VIDEO: https://youtu.be/voqa1Sy5iZYSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

If you have thought about entering the wine trade but really don't think you would be much of wine winemaker...but you really feel like you are going to love it. It actually took me many years to "love" it but hear this story. Armen is getting ready to quite his day job... head down and make it work. And you  know, it is working. Armen Ghazikhanian didn't so much dive into the wine business as wander in with curiosity, a keen palate, and a spreadsheet in his back pocket. You'll come away from this episode with more than just a newfound respect for Armenian wine; you'll discover how a career in finance can lead to the art of curating bottles that carry centuries of culture and a whisper of volcanic terroir. Armen reveals how his passion-driven side gig, Cork and Bottle, was forged as much by personal connections and boots on the ground in remote Armenian villages as by business school savviness—only to discover that the wine industry plays by its own rules entirely. Along the way, you'll learn about the surprising renaissance of Armenian winemaking after the Soviet era, why indigenous grape varieties like areni and voskehat are turning the heads of wine judges and sommeliers, and what happens when you take a risk importing unknown bottles to the US, hoping they don't just satisfy your friends but spark conversation in wine shops and restaurants across California. Through anecdotes of smuggling bottles, weathering the red tape of international logistics, and winning unexpected gold at wine competitions, Armen shares what it means to balance romanticism and reality in the wine trade. Hosts and listeners alike will come away with a deeper appreciation for how wine isn't just a drink, but a powerful carrier of memory, tradition, and entrepreneurial risk—all told with Armen's self-effacing humor and Paul's insider understanding of the business. And if you've ever wondered whether a grape from the South Caucasus can go toe-to-toe with a California cab, this episode might just send you to the nearest shop asking for a bottle of “Areni”—even if you're not quite sure how to pronounce it.   #WineTalksPodcast #ArmenianWine #CorkAndBottle #WineImporter #WineCulture #PassionToProfession #IndigenousGrapes #WineBusiness

Buy the Oldest Stories books!: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhS :In this episode of Oldest Stories, we explore the complex military and political history of Urartu during its northern campaigns in the early 8th century BCE. As King Menua consolidates power and expands Biainilli influence into the Armenian Highlands, he clashes with the highland polities of Etiuni and Diauehi—two distinct yet influential groups whose stories illuminate the ethnic, linguistic, and political diversity of the Iron Age Caucasus.We examine the engineering feats of Urartian infrastructure, the fortress networks of Etiuni, and the semi-nomadic coalition of the Kartvelian-speaking Diauehi. Through archaeological evidence, Urartian inscriptions, and historical reconstruction, this episode situates the military campaigns in the broader context of ancient Near Eastern state formation, nomadic-sedentary dynamics, and the forgotten peoples of the highlands. Key themes include mountain warfare, tribal confederations, language diversity, and imperial border policy in Iron Age Anatolia and the South Caucasus.Topics include: Urartu, Biainilli, Menua, Argishti I, Etiuni, Diauehi, Armenian Highlands, Lake Sevan, Kartvelians, Iron Age warfare, highland polities, Cimmerians, Assyrian frontier strategy, fortress archaeology, and ancient tribal coalitions in Eastern Anatolia and the Caucasus.I am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

Groong Week in Review - May 4, 2025TopicsWar Drums Around IranArmenia-Azerbaijan TalksMay 9: Victory Day in MoscowIt's OK to Beat Up Journalists in YerevanGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 434 | Recorded: May 6, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/434VIDEO: https://youtu.be/n2VjZPNDSOMSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In this episode of the International Risk Podcast, we turn our focus to the South Caucasus, where Armenia stands at a critical geopolitical juncture. Our guest is Dr. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan, Associate Professor of Political Science and International Affairs at the American University of Armenia and a leading voice on regional security and Armenian foreign policy.Dr. Ter-Matevosyan offers a compelling analysis of Armenia's post-2020 political landscape, the complexities of its relationship with Azerbaijan, and the challenges of negotiating peace amid uncertainty. We explore how domestic expectations, historical narratives, and external pressures intersect in shaping Armenia's strategic choices.What are the risks of a fragile peace process? How are regional and global actors influencing the outcome? And what does the future hold for a country navigating between tradition, reform, and realpolitik?Join us for a deep and thought-provoking discussion on one of the most consequential, yet often overlooked, regions in international affairs.Dr. Vahram Ter-Matevosyan is an Associate Professor of Political Science and International Affairs at the American University of Armenia and a leading scholar on Turkish foreign policy, regional security, and post-Soviet politics. He has advised government agencies, published extensively on nationalism and regional dynamics, and brings deep, evidence-based analysis to some of the most pressing questions about Armenia's place in an increasingly multipolar world.The International Risk Podcast is a weekly podcast for senior executives, board members, and risk advisors. In these podcasts, we speak with experts in a variety of fields to explore international relations. Our host is Dominic Bowen, Head of Strategic Advisory at one of Europe's leading risk consulting firms. Dominic is a regular public and corporate event speaker, and visiting lecturer at several universities. Having spent the last 20 years successfully establishing large and complex operations in the world's highest-risk areas and conflict zones, Dominic now joins you to speak with exciting guests around the world to discuss international risk.The International Risk Podcast – Reducing risk by increasing knowledge.Follow us on LinkedIn and Subscribe for all our great updates!Tell us what you liked!

"Provoked", U.S. Foreign Policy, Colored Revolutions, Ukraine War, Armenia, and moreConversations on Groong - May 4, 2025TopicsWhat happened to Antiwar VoicesColor Revolutions as US StrategyArmenia and Pipeline GeopoliticsAnd more!GuestScott Horton- TW/@scotthortonshow, and @ScottHortonShow & @AntiWarComHostsHovik Manucharyan - TW/@HovikYerevanAsbed Bedrossian - TW/@qubriqEpisode 433 | Recorded: May 2, 2025Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

SOUTH CAUCASUS  :TURKEY, AZERBAIJAN, ISRAEL VS RUSSIA, ARMENIA, IRAN. JANATAN SAYEH, BILL ROGGIO, FDD. 1904 DOHA

The small country of Armenia in the South Caucasus has long been positioning itself as an emerging technology hub. Hundreds of tech start-ups with strong ties to the US market through the Armenian diaspora are now based there. From 2020 to 2022, investments in small Armenian tech companies reached $48 million. The industry has been partly fuelled by the arrival of hundreds of Russian IT specialists following the invasion of Ukraine.We hear how the government wants the IT sector to develop the economy, talk to tech start-up founders, and find out how tech education for children is being prioritised.If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.uk(Picture: Staff in the offices of Doctor Yan, a health care assistant app in Armenia. Credit: BBC)Presented and produced by Rayhan Demytrie