Podcasts about south caucasus

Week In Review - May 31, 2026In this episode of Groong's Week in Review, hosts Hovik and Asbed examine Armenia's May 28 Independence Day parade as campaign theater, Marco Rubio's push for critical minerals deals, and the strategic risks of TRIPP in Syunik. We discuss how Pashinyan's military parade coincides with Armenian prisoners of war held hostage in Baku, the questionable financing of weapons through $8 billion in external debt, and the broader geopolitical pressures from Russia and Iran as Armenia heads into the 2026 Armenian Parliamentary Election.Topics:May 28 and StatehoodParade as Campaign TheaterRubio's Armenia AgreementsMinerals Without GuaranteesTRIPP Risks in SyunikRussia and Iran PushbackElection Climate and RepressionHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 553 | Recorded: June 1, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/553VIDEO: https://youtu.be/oO5kbg6B_Q8#Armenia #May28 #MarcoRubio #TRIPP #Syunik #CriticalMinerals #ElectionFraud #RussiaArmeniaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In this episode of Peace Matters, we discuss Armenia's upcoming parliamentary elections and the country's changing geopolitical orientation at a time of regional uncertainty.For decades, Armenia was considered one of Russia's closest allies in the post-Soviet space, relying heavily on Moscow for economic cooperation and security guarantees. But the aftermath of the Nagorno-Karabakh war of 2020, growing disappointment with Russia, and increased engagement with the European Union have started to reshape Yerevan's foreign policy priorities.How democratic is Armenia's political system today, and what is at stake in the upcoming elections? Is Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan likely to stay in power, and how are the elections influenced by the unresolved conflict with Azerbaijan? We also examine the growing role of the EU in Armenia, Russia's reaction to Armenia's gradual westward shift, and whether the country can realistically balance relations between Moscow and Brussels.Guests:Christoph Bilban has been researcher in the Institute for Peace Support and Conflict Management at the Austrian National Defence Academy since 2016. Since June 2024 he is co-chair of the Regional Stability in the South Caucasus Study Group of the Partnership for Peace Consortium. His research covers Russian foreign policy and conflicts in the area of the former Soviet Union, with a focus on the conflict in Ukraine and the conflicts in the South Caucasus. He is an officer in the Austrian Armed Forces' active reserve.Hannes Meissner is a Managing Partner at LM-PRISK consultancy firm. His expertise relates to the post-Soviet space – a region that he has travelled extensively due to both business projects and scientific field research. Hannes regularly gives talks on political risk, most recently at the Chinese Economic Summit in Hong Kong, the Astana International Financial Centre, the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, the Netherlands Institute of International Relations Clingendael and the University of Cambridge. Hannes holds a PhD in political science from the University of Hamburg. He is also a member of the research group Eastern Europe at the University of Vienna.Moderation:Marylia Hushcha, Researcher and Project Manager at the IIPThe episode was recorded on 18 May 2026.

Week in Review - May 17, 2026This Week in Review covers a tense mix of global and Armenian political crises, from Trump's summit with Xi Jinping and the deepening Iran war, to Armenia's worsening relations with Russia and the risks to trade, energy, and security ties. Hovik and Asbed also examine Armenia's heated election climate, including allegations of state pressure, abuse of administrative resources, selective law enforcement, Pashinyan's violent campaign rhetoric against opposition leaders, and the muted response of international observers. The episode also looks at Robert Kocharyan's call for major-power guarantees for peace with Azerbaijan, and the vandalism of the Sourp Nshan Armenian Church in Javakhk.Topics:Trump, China, and IranArmenia-Russia "soft divorce"Pashinyan's violent campaign rhetoricState resources and election pressureJavakhk church vandalism concernsHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 547 | Recorded: May 18, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/547VIDEO: https://youtu.be/XrhKanb6QDg#Pashinyan #ArmeniaElections #ArmenianPolitics #PoliticalViolence #HateSpeech #ArmeniaRussia #IranWar #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - May 15, 2026Dr. Arman Grigoryan joins Groong to discuss Armenia's post-2020 foreign policy and his argument that Pashinyan's government has replaced one failed project, maximalist claims over Artsakh, with another: a risky strategic pivot away from Russia and toward the West. The conversation examines "revolutionary recklessness," the roots of the 2020 war, Armenia's worsening ties with Russia, the surrender of Artsakh, TRIPP and Syunik, Western encouragement, and the absence of firm security guarantees. Grigoryan also considers whether Armenia is gaining real sovereignty or exposing itself to greater pressure from Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Russia.Topics:Revolutionary recklessness after 2020Armenia's pivot away from RussiaArtsakh's surrender and strategic reorientationTRIPP, Syunik, and security guaranteesWestern backing, Armenian riskGuest: Arman GrigoryanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 546 | Recorded: May 13, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/546VIDEO: https://youtu.be/K3fj1Y35Dsw#ArmanGrigoryan #Armenia #Russia #Pashinyan #Artsakh #TRIPP #SouthCaucasus #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In this episode, we unpack how the war in the Middle East has been shaping the economic outlook for Azerbaijan, and why — perhaps surprisingly — it has generated some positive spillovers for Armenia too. We explore how Armenia continues to outperform growth expectations, while its external sector undergoes a structural shift toward IT and financial services that most investors are still overlooking. We then turn to the June 2026 parliamentary elections and why their outcome is directly tied to the pace of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process and the prospect of opening the Turkish border for the first time since 1993. After more than three decades of conflict, a new chapter may finally be within reach in the South Caucasus.   Speakers Khamza Sharifzoda, EM, Economic and Policy Research Fatih Akcelik, EM, Economic and Policy Research Moderator: Nicolaie Alexandru-Chidesciuc, EM, Economic and Policy Research   This podcast was recorded on 13 May 2026. This communication is provided for information purposes only. Institutional clients can view the related report at https://www.jpmm.com/research/content/GPS-5250547-0, https://www.jpmm.com/research/content/GPS-5207471-0, https://www.jpmm.com/research/content/GPS-5165451-0, for more information; please visit www.jpmm.com/research/disclosures for important disclosures. © 2026 JPMorgan Chase & Co. All rights reserved. This material or any portion hereof may not be reprinted, sold or redistributed without the written consent of J.P. Morgan. It is strictly prohibited to use or share without prior written consent from J.P. Morgan any research material received from J.P. Morgan or an authorized third-party (“J.P. Morgan Data”) in any third-party artificial intelligence (“AI”) systems or models when such J.P. Morgan Data is accessible by a third-party.

Conversations on Groong - May 8, 2026In this episode of Conversations on Groong, Dr. Anatol Lieven joins us to examine Russia's place in a rapidly shifting global order. The discussion looks at the war in Ukraine, the state of Russia-EU relations after Viktor Orbán's political defeat, and the uncertain trajectory of the war on Iran, including whether any real diplomatic offramp still exists. They also explore whether Russia's relationship with Iran is truly strategic or mainly transactional, how China fits into the wider balance of power, and what all of this means for the South Caucasus, Armenia's current path under Pashinyan, and Azerbaijan's ambitions to turn wartime leverage into lasting regional influence.TopicsRussia, Iran, Europe, multipolar orderUkraine war and Russia-West tensionsIran war and diplomatic offrampsArmenia, TRIPP, South CaucasusGuest: Anatol LievenHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 541 | Recorded: May 5, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/541VIDEO: https://youtu.be/bnwKcnMSZTk#AnatolLieven #Russia #Iran #Europe #UkraineWar #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Day 1,531.Today, after a weekend in which Zelensky joined more than 30 European leaders – along with the prime minister of Canada – at the European Political Community summit in Armenia, a country Moscow considers a close ally in the South Caucasus, and Ukraine calls Russia's bluff over “ceasefires”, we report on further shadow fleet sanctions activity – from new regulations to unexplained explosions. And later, we look ahead to May Day celebrations in Russia and ask whether a Ukrainian drone penetrating Moscow's layers of air defence suggests the parade could go off with a real bang.Contributors:Dominic Nicholls (Host on Ukraine: The Latest). @DomNicholls on X.Francis Dearnley (Host on Ukraine: The Latest). @FrancisDearnley on X.Adelie Pojzman-Pontay (Host on Ukraine: The Latest). @Adeliepjz on X.With thanks to Yuliya Sotska of Ukrainian charity ‘Children of Heroes'.NOW IN FULL VIDEO WITH MAPS & BATTLEFIELD FOOTAGE:Every episode is now available on our YouTube channel shortly after the release of the audio version. You will find it here: https://www.youtube.com/@UkraineTheLatest CONTENT REFERENCED:Learn more about ‘Children of Heroes':https://childrenheroes.org/en/ Francis's Long Interview with Silicon Curtain:Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vopvERNHGtg Audio: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0qwPAXSkPTvScvGtdKa2rmZelensky challenges Putin to new ceasefire (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/05/04/zelensky-challenges-putin-to-new-ceasefire/ Starmer to lobby Macron for closer EU ties (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/05/03/keir-starmer-join-eu-defence-fund-loan-ukraine/ Zelensky has scrapped open-ended military contracts to attract new recruits (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/05/01/zelensky-scraps-indefinite-contracts-soldiers-recruits/ Europe fears Putin's ‘window of opportunity' is now (Politico):https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-fears-valdimir-putin-window-opportunity-nato-test/EMAIL US:Contact the team on ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk . We continue to read every message, and seek to respond to as many on air and in our newsletter as possible.HIGHLIGHTS: Putin challenged to new ceasefire by Zelensky Fears NATO 'disintegrating' as Trump pulls thousands of troops from Europe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conversations on Groong - May 3, 2026In this Conversations on Groong episode, Hrair Balian joins us to discuss his book Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno Karabakh Conflict & Missed Opportunities, the failure of diplomacy around Artsakh, and what Armenia should learn from the long collapse of the peace process. The conversation also looks at the Iran war, US and Israeli goals in the region, the TRIPP/Zangezur Corridor and its security impact on Armenia, and the role of outside powers in shaping outcomes in the South Caucasus. The episode closes with a discussion of Armenia's June parliamentary elections, opposition repression, election monitoring, and whether international observers will judge the vote by facts on the ground or political convenience.Mr. Balian's book: https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Peacemaking-Nagorno-Karabakh-Opportunities-Rethinking/dp/3032124891Topics:US-Iran war and failed diplomacyTRIPP and Armenia's security risksKarabakh negotiations and missed chancesPashinyan's Artsakh policy reversalArmenia's June elections and monitoringGuest: Hrair BalianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 538 | Recorded: April 30, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/538VIDEO: https://youtu.be/5ubpIoBjAI0#HrairBalian #Groong #Armenia #Artsakh #NagornoKarabakh #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #ArmenianElectionsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - Apr 30, 2026In this Conversations on Groong episode, we speak with Arega Hovsepyan of the Strong Armenia party about Armenia's June 2026 parliamentary elections, opposition politics, and the shifting geopolitical landscape in the South Caucasus. The discussion covers recent arrests of Strong Armenia members, political pressure on the opposition, and concerns about democratic processes under Pashinyan. We also examine the situation of displaced Artsakh Armenians, including rights, return, voting access, and living conditions in Armenia. The episode explores competing narratives around “peace” with Azerbaijan, the implications of the Zangezur Corridor or TRIPP project, and how regional dynamics involving Iran, Russia, and Turkey shape Armenia's security and political future. Topics:Strong Armenia and election dynamicsNew arrests and political pressureArtsakh Armenians and their rightsTRIPP corridor and regional securityGuest: Arega HovsepyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 537 | Recorded: Apr 28, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/537VIDEO: https://youtu.be/G2lysDT6SSQ#Armenia #Artsakh #StrongArmenia #AregaHovsepyan #ArmenianPolitics #SouthCaucasus #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - April 26, 2026This Week in Review on Groong examines how the Iran war fallout and the extension of the ceasefire are reshaping Armenia's geopolitical position. We break down the push for the TRIPP or Zangezur Corridor and the claims of Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization, and assess how they tie to regional power dynamics involving Iran, Russia, Turkey, and the United States. The episode also covers Armenia's 2026 elections and rising elite tensions. In addition, we discuss the global commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, contrasting international messaging with domestic narratives and linking it to ongoing debates around Artsakh and historical continuity.Topics:  - TRIPP hinges on Iran war outcome  - Armenian Genocide commemoration  - Peace narrative vs corridor reality  - Parliamentary electionGuest: Arthur G MartirosyanHosts:  - Hovik Manucharyan  - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 536 | Recorded: April 27, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/536VIDEO: https://youtu.be/tu49vlEYJKU#Armenia #IranWar #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #Elections2026 #SouthCaucasus #Geopolitics #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - April 25, 2026In this episode of the Groong podcast, we speak with Dr. Dmitry Suslov about the shifting geopolitical landscape across the Iran war, the Ukraine conflict, and the South Caucasus. We examine the fragile state of the Iran war and its impact on global trade and regional escalation, Russia's strategic positioning, and the potential for a broader conflict involving Azerbaijan and Turkey. The discussion then turns to the Ukraine war, focusing on attrition, Europe's growing militarization, and the prospects for a long-term Russia–Europe confrontation. Finally, we explore Russia's policy in the South Caucasus, including Armenia's political trajectory, tensions following Pashinyan's Moscow visit, and the broader balance of power shaping Armenia's future.Topics:Iran war dynamics and Russia's roleUkraine war and Europe's militarizationArmenia's pivot and Russia's responseRegional power balanceGuestDr. Dmitry SuslovHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 534 | Recorded: April 24, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/534VIDEO: https://youtu.be/kjUQN8LVuFk#Russia #IranWar #UkraineWar #SouthCaucasus #Armenia #TRIPP #Geopolitics #EurasiaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - April 19, 2026In this Week in Review episode, Ambassador Dziunik Aghajanian discusses the stalled Iran negotiations after the Islamabad talks, the renewed pressure around Hormuz and the naval blockade, Turkey's posture toward Israel and the region; Armenia's lower-profile participation in the Antalya Diplomatic Forum; Russia's shifting rhetoric on TRIPP and the South Caucasus; and the June 7 parliamentary election in Armenia, including constitutional changes, border concessions, the gas pipeline rerouting issue, and the use of surveillance and arrests against opposition figures.TopicsIran War UpdateAntalya Diplomatic ForumArmenian Parliamentary ElectionGuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 532 | Recorded: April 20, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/532Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - April 12, 2026In this episode, we examine a fast-moving regional and political landscape, from the collapse of the US-Iran talks in Islamabad and the threat of a new naval blockade, to Viktor Orban's election loss in Hungary and what it may signal for Armenia and the wider region. We also dig into new polling from Armenia, including public views on security, the Iran war, free speech, voter turnout, and party support ahead of the 2026 elections. Along the way, we look at the Abkhaz railway as a possible alternative trade route, questions around TRIPP and Armenia's growing dependence on Azerbaijan and Turkey, and what the latest numbers may reveal about the strength, weakness, and strategy of Armenia's opposition.Topics: US-Iran Talks in PakistanOrban Loses Hungary ElectionsArmenian Parliamentary ElectionsPolls: MPG, IRI, ARAR, EVNGuest: Hrant MikaelianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 531 | Recorded: April 14, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/531VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ZzhV5xsXFks#Armenia #IranWar #ArmenianPolitics #HungaryElections #ArmeniaPollsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - March 29, 2026Our guest Anna Karapetyan focused on the widening Iran war and its possible fallout for Armenia, then turned to the narratives shaping Armenia's election season. The discussion examined Pashinyan's claim to have delivered peace, the taboo around speaking about Artsakh and Artsakhtsis' rights, the uncertainty around the TRIPP corridor project, the political use of fear that an opposition victory would bring war, and the security and environmental questions surrounding a proposed AI data center. In the closing segment, the participants reflected on the broader propaganda environment in Armenia and on Formula 1's continued partnership with authoritarian states such as Azerbaijan.TopicsIran war escalation and spilloverPashinyan's Fake “peace” narrativesElections built on fear-mongeringSilencing talk of ArtsakhGuestAnna KarapetyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 528 | Recorded: March 30, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/528Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - March 22, 2026This Week in Review featured Asbed and Hovik without a guest. We discussed the death of Georgian Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II and the Armenian government's blocking of Catholicos of all Armenians Karekin II from attending the funeral; the latest turn in the Iran war and what it could mean for Armenia and the wider region; Israel's renewed ground operation in southern Lebanon; and Armenia's June elections, including political prisoners, media freedom, Civil Contract's campaign tactics, the opposition field, EU involvement, and Strong Armenia's messaging on TRIPP and security.TopicsKarekin II travel-banned from attending Catholicos Ilia II FuneralIran War updateArmenian June ElectionsHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 527 | Recorded: March 23, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/527Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - March 20, 2026Topics:Iran at WarThe Northern Front: Turkey & AzerbaijanChanging Nakhijevan's ConstitutionGuest: Varuzhan GeghamyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 524 | Recorded: March 19, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/524VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SQHD3lZxAwc#IranWar #VaruzhanGeghamyan #ZangezurCorridor #Syunik #ArmeniaGeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

The Iran war is adding impetus to reconciliation efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as the region seeks to position itself as a new trade corridor between Europe and energy-rich central Asia, with the conflict highlighting Europe's energy dependency on the volatile Middle East. Addressing the European Parliament earlier this month, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan declared that, with the Iranian conflict on its border, efforts would be stepped up to realise a trade route with Azerbaijan.  The United States-brokered TRIPP project, negotiated by United States President Donald Trump last August, is seen as key to reconciling the two countries, after decades of conflict over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh enclave.  With both Armenia and Azerbaijan bordering Iran, the conflict is providing a powerful impetus for cooperation. “This war in Iran has fostered much more of a localised regional identity where, despite the wars and the conflicts of the last several decades, Armenia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan are actually banding together,” said Richard Giragosiyan, director of the Regional Studies Center, a think tank based in the Armenian capital, Yerevan. “Now is the one opportunity for consolidating regional connectivity in terms of trade and transport." Life after ruin: Aghdam's fragile rebirth after the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict 'The Trump Road' Pashinyan and Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev signed the TRIPP agreement as part of a peace deal, committing to unimpeded connectivity between mainland Azerbaijan and the exclave of Nakhchivan, via Armenian territory. The new trade route is expected to become part of what is dubbed the “Middle Corridor”, linking energy-rich Central Asian countries to Europe via Turkey. Tehran strongly opposes the initiative, as the corridor offers an alternative to transiting through Iran to Central Asia. However, the Iran war has further curtailed Tehran's diminishing influence in the Caucasus. “We also shouldn't forget the benefits of the Iran war,” said Turkey analyst Atilla Yesilada of the New York-based Global Source Partners consultancy. “They [Ankara] want a weak Iran so that they can expand their footprint in the South Caucasus against Iran.” Yesilada says the fallout from the Iran war underscores the importance of the TRIPP agreement – or, as it's sometimes dubbed in Turkey, the “Trump Road" – which is key to Ankara's economic goals.  “We get the Trump Road because nobody would want to traverse Iran under these conditions,” explains Yesilada, “And you get [a] not immediate but gradual, but permanent, development boost from trade and investment along that route.” US takes lead in Caucasus peace deal as France is pushed aside A new route for Europe The Middle Corridor is seen as an opportunity for Europe to diversify in terms of energy supply from the volatile Middle East. “The most obvious security lesson [from the Iran war] is diversity,” said Tatiana Mitrova, a research fellow at the Center on Global Energy Policy at New York's Columbia University. "The real jewel is Turkmenistan's gas, the third largest [supply] in terms of the world's resources. I believe that there will be a lot of discussions about the middle corridor both in the region and in Europe.” However, Mitrova remains cautious about the project's viability, saying: "Economically it's not attractive – too many risks and too low margins.” The Caucasus is sandwiched between Russia's war in Ukraine and the Iran conflict, raising questions over how secure any new energy route to Europe would be. These come alongside reservations over the viability of the billions of euros of investment needed, at a time when Europe is seeking to transition away from fossil fuels.  “The problem with the Brussels policy is they don't want to invest in hydrocarbons, they don't invest in gas,” said Farid Shafiyev, chairman of the Baku-based Center of Analysis of International Relations. Frenchman convicted for spying in Azerbaijan, sentenced to ten years Opportunity for peace However, Shafiyev argues that, in addition to providing an alternative energy supply for Europe, there is an opportunity to build on the current momentum for peace.  “There is some hostility remaining... but overall, the feeling [is] we don't want any new war and conflict in the South Caucasus. And indeed, [there is] a sort of window of opportunity to bring this alternative route, including for energy and gas." Interdependency in trade, and with it economic prosperity, is seen as key to strengthening the rapprochement between Armenia, Azerbaijan and their Turkish neighbours. It's a rapprochement that could also be vital to resisting any future threat from Russia, which is seeking to reassert itself in the region. However, such threats of renewed instability could also prove a major obstacle to any large-scale infrastructure investment by Europe.

Groong Week in Review - March 15, 2026Arthur Martirosyan examines the ongoing U.S.–Israel war on Iran and its uncertain trajectory, focusing on escalation risks, strategic objectives, and potential diplomatic offramps. The discussion then turns to regional spillover effects, particularly the risks for Armenia amid Iran–Azerbaijan tensions and broader geopolitical shifts. We conclude with an analysis of Armenia's upcoming parliamentary elections, including the fragmented opposition landscape, concerns about electoral fairness, and contradictions in public opinion reflected in recent polling.TopicsIran WarEffect on ArmeniaJune Parliamentary ElectionsGuestArthur G MartirosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 522 | Recorded: March 16, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/522Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

We discuss with Hrant Mikaelian the expanding war on Iran and what it could mean for the region. We took a close look at the latest IRI poll and its disputed methodology and findings, and the emerging shape of Armenia's parliamentary race. Hrant Mikaelian argued that Iran's leadership transition signals greater resolve rather than collapse, that Azerbaijan is still constrained from direct action against Iran unless the Iranian state seriously weakens, and that the IRI poll raises major methodological and interpretive questions. The discussion then turned to the opposition field in Armenia, where newer forces may have room to grow, but where media imbalance and weak opposition reach remain major structural obstacles.TopicsIran War UpdateIRI Poll ReviewPolitical LandscapeGuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 521 | Recorded: March 8, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/521Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In episode 257 of Talk Eastern Europe, Adam and Alexandrareact to the breakout of war in the Middle East and what it might mean from the regional aspect. They look specifically at relations with Russia, the war in Ukraine and also the South Caucasus, which borders the conflict zone. They also catch on the situation in Albania and discuss Hungary's latest tactics ahead of the elections in April.For the main interview Alexandra is joined by Toma Istomina,deputy chief editor of The Kyiv Independent, on the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Tome reflects on how the newsroom transformed overnight from a small startup into a major international outlet covering the war, and how journalists balance urgent battlefield reporting with deeper coverage of Ukrainian culture, history, and everyday life. The conversation explores the challenges of reporting during prolonged conflict, the importance of global understanding of Ukraine, and the role international audiences can play in supporting independent journalism covering the war.Check out the Kyiv Independent online: https://kyivindependent.com/Watch the special YouTube series “Dare to Ukraine” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cjMmGeLq0I&list=PLmOj0Ur_xinRpYyt31pbGt48Z6YGwX6ZtSupport the podcast and become a patron here: www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope

In EVN Report's news roundup for the week of March 6: Following U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, the stakes are high for Armenia and the wider South Caucasus; Armenian Government is facilitating the return of Armenian nationals trapped across the Gulf and other regions; Electric Networks of Armenia, owned by Tashir Group, is to be nationalized and more.

Groong Week in Review - March 1, 2026TopicsUS and Israel launch war against IranDecapitation strikes, mass civilian casualtiesIran retaliates region-wide, war expandsArmenia leadership silentSumgait rememberedGuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 520 | Recorded: March 2, 2026#IranWar #EpicFury #MiddleEastWar #ArmeniaForeignPolicy #Sumgait1988 #IranIsraelConflictSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - February 22, 2026Topics:Iran War FearsJune Parliamentary ElectionsAttacks on the Armenian ChurchGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 519 | Recorded: February 25, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/519VIDEO: https://youtu.be/1FFkLOeY2lI#Armenia #Iran #ArmeniaElections #ArmenianChurch #SouthCaucasusSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Today, we're bringing you a bonus episode from Crisis Group's global podcast, Hold Your Fire!In this episode of Hold Your Fire!, Richard Atwood speaks with Joshua Kucera, Crisis Group's senior South Caucasus analyst, about progress in Armenia-Azerbaijan peace talks, U.S. involvement and shifting regional politics. They discuss U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance's recent visit to Yerevan and Baku, why Washington got involved and U.S. efforts to broker agreement on the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) – a proposed transit corridor linking mainland Azerbaijan to its exclave of Nakhchivan through southern Armenia. They talk about whether the corridor could move forward even without a fully ratified peace deal and examine the remaining sticking points. They also assess Türkiye's expanding role in the region, Iran's concerns about the corridor, Russia's waning influence and European policy. They examine why the Trump administration's peacemaking appears to have been more successful in the South Caucasus than elsewhere. For more, check out Joshua's recent Analyst's Notebook, “Vance Visit Reaffirms U.S. Push to End Armenia-Azerbaijan Conflict” and our Armenian-Azerbaijani Conflict page. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following the initiation of a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan last summer, there is still a long way to go before the conclusion of a formal agreement and sustainable peace in the region. In the wake of a visit by U.S. Vice President JD Vance and a plethora of signed agreements, the South Caucasus finds itself less and less dependent on a previous regional hegemon: Russia. What does this mean for the region? What obstacles remain on the road to a full-fledged peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan? Check out the paper here.

In this episode of Hold Your Fire!, Richard Atwood speaks with Joshua Kucera, Crisis Group's senior South Caucasus analyst, about progress in Armenia-Azerbaijan peace talks, U.S. involvement and shifting regional politics. They discuss U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance's recent visit to Yerevan and Baku, why Washington got involved and U.S. efforts to broker agreement on the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) – a proposed transit corridor linking mainland Azerbaijan to its exclave of Nakhchivan through southern Armenia. They talk about whether the corridor could move forward even without a fully ratified peace deal and examine the remaining sticking points. They also assess Türkiye's expanding role in the region, Iran's concerns about the corridor, Russia's waning influence and European policy. They examine why the Trump administration's peacemaking appears to have been more successful in the South Caucasus than elsewhere. Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.For more, check out Joshua's recent Analyst's Notebook, “Vance Visit Reaffirms U.S. Push to End Armenia-Azerbaijan Conflict” and our Armenian-Azerbaijani Conflict page. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Groong Week in Review - February 8, 2026TopicsA European View of AmericaJD Vance in ArmeniaPashinyan vs. The Armenian ChurchEurope and ArmeniaGuestPhilippe Raffi KalfayanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 516 | Recorded: February 9, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/516Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

The peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, initialed in August 2025, represents a major turning point for the South Caucasus.Thomas de Waal, Zaur Shiriyev, and Areg Kochinyan discuss the role Europe can play in supporting normalization and advancing infrastructure development across the region.[00:00:00] Intro, [00:01:37] The Armenia-Azerbaijan Normalization, [00:11:23] New Connectivity Projects in the South Caucasus, [00:19:31] Europe's Role in Supporting the Peace Process.Zaur Shiriyev, February 3, 2026, “Europe Falls Behind in the South Caucasus Connectivity Race,” Strategic Europe, Carnegie Europe.Thomas de Waal, December 16, 2025, “Trump's Peace Lessons for Europe,” Strategic Europe, Carnegie Europe.Zaur Shiriyev and Philip Gamaghelyan, December 4, 2025, “Strategic Directions for Building Sustainable Peace Between Armenia and Azerbaijan,” Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center.Thomas de Waal, November 13, 2025, “Armenia's Election Is a Foreign Affair,” Strategic Europe, Carnegie Europe.Thomas de Waal, September 22, 2025, “An Unlikely Road to Peace for Armenia and Azerbaijan,” Foreign Affairs.Philip Gamaghelyan and Zaur Shiriyev, August 7, 2025, “As They Edge Toward Peace, Armenia and Azerbaijan Must Resist Old Habits,” Emissary, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.Zaur Shiriyev, May 26, 2025, “The Precarious Power of Azerbaijan,” Foreign Affairs.Thomas de Waal, March 17, 2025, “Armenia and Azerbaijan's Major Step Forward,” Emissary, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.Areg Kochinyan, July 12, 2024, “Why the World Must Support Armenia's Defeated Democracy Against Russian Hybrid Warfare,” Conflict and Civicness Research Blog, London School of Economics and Political Science.Areg Kochinyan, May 21, 2024, “Armenia Should Use This Window of Opportunity to Leave Russia's Orbit,” Politika, Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center.

Global Affairs in the Age of Trump 2.0Conversations on GroongTopicsTrump 2.0 and the “Donroe Doctrine”Rules-Based Disorder?Iran vs. the “Big, Beautiful Armada”US Cohesion and MidtermsJD Vance in the South CaucasusGuestsJames CardenPietro ShakarianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 515 | Recorded: February 6, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/515Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

This week Patrick Bishop and Saul David examine a the latest news in week of deadly limbo in Ukraine as Donald Trump's promised "energy truce" is shattered by a record-breaking Russian bombardment in -20°C temperatures. We analyse why Moscow's advances are now slower than the Battle of the Somme and discuss Elon Musk's latest move to block Starlink from Russian drones. Later in the episode, we are joined by friend of the pod Julius Strauss, who discusses the crumbling of the post-imperial space in the South Caucasus's. Fresh from a recent trip to Azerbaijan, we explore the waning Russian influence in the region, and how the Kremlin is losing its grip on a key strategic partner. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - podbattleground@gmail.com Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Qarabağ have made Champions League history this season, becoming the first Azerbaijani club to ever reach the knockout stages of the competition – and setting up a play-off tie against Premier League team Newcastle United.Their run has come at a time of dramatic geopolitical change in the South Caucasus, with the club preparing to return to their hometown of Ağdam after spending more than three decades in exile in the capital Baku.Elsewhere, Bodø/Glimt stunned the continent by qualifying for the knockouts despite not playing domestic football since November, while Benfica hit the headlines with a goalkeeper goal and a viral TV interview from a local priest.Club Brugge also progressed through the league phase, but that will not be the enduring memory of their season for three fans who accompanied the team to Kazakhstan and ended up in jail in one of the strangest away-day stories of the season. Ghost Cities FC by James Montague for the BBC: www.bbc.com/audio/play/p0lxg7xyChapters00:00 – Intro00:41 – Qarabağ's historic Champions League run02:01 – A story of exile and homecoming07:22 – Soft power and state support10:50 – The secret to their sporting success14:37 – The challenges ahead: Newcastle and Sabah17:02 – Patreon preview: Chapecoense and South America18:33 – Another milestone for Bodø/Glimt21:45 – Benfica's keeper goal and priest interview26:07 – Brugge's congratulations and Borat arrests

Seismologist Harry Kuril joins Jeremy to talk about Harry's thru hike of the Transcaucasian Trail through the countries of Armenia and Georgia in the South Caucasus.  On this epic adventure along a newly-developed long-distance trail, hikers cross forest, mountains, canyons, pastoral lands, farms, local villages, and cultural heritage sites.  The South Caucasus are a fascinating crossroads between Europe and Asia, and there is an extensive human history in the region.Harry's blog post about the Transcaucasian Trail:  https://hkuril.com/html/en/articles/2023_tct/tct_guide.htmlOutdoor Herbivore - 10% off - TWH10P:  https://outdoorherbivore.com/Highlander Big Bear Lake 2026 - 20% off - TWH20:  https://www.highlanderadventure.com/en-us/big-bear-lake Membership/Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/trailsworthhiking Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trailsworthhikingpodcast/ email: trailsworthhiking@gmail.com Jeremy's YouTube channel: Go-Go Retirement: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeko5J9u1WD-7Pc7TnCa9qQ

Groong Week in Review - January 25, 2026Topics:Memorial Day vs. Army DayJD Vance to Armenia and AzerbaijanArmenian Church DevelopmentsStrong Armenia - New Political PartyGuest: Arthur KhachatryanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 510 | Recorded: January 27, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/510VIDEO: https://youtu.be/czqx5UCdFA0#GroongWeekInReview #Armenia #RulesBasedOrder #JDVance #TRIPP #ArmenianChurchSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Talk Eastern Europe is back for 2026! Adam and Alex open theepisode with a discussion on the news from the region, including Ukraine, Slovakia, Hungary and Kosovo. Later, Adam is joined by Mark Temnicky, contributor with Forbes, to assesshow US engagement across Eastern Europe and the region is reshaping regional security. Mark argues that while Ukraine has made real concessions in pursuit of peace, Russia has shown little interest in a sustainable settlement, raising serious doubts about the prospects for a lasting agreement in 2026. The discussion also looks beyond Ukraine to cover also Belarus, Georgia, the South Caucasus, and the wider global order. If you enjoy this podcast please become a patron! Join ushere: www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope

Groong Week in Review - January 18, 2026Topics:Syria, Kurds, Turkish advanceIran unrest, war postponedTRIPP and sovereignty dispute2026 elections, foreign influenceGuest: Sergei MelkonianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 508 | Recorded: January 19, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/508VIDEO: https://youtu.be/LDI5e7Tcu8k#ArmenianNews #Syria #Iran #ZangezurCorridor #TRIPP #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - January 11, 2026TopicsUkraine war's global cost to RussiaIran unrest and war riskRemembering the Baku pogromsRussia-Armenia tensions and media threatsPashinyan's clash with Armenian ChurchGuestArthur MartirosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 505 | Recorded: January 13, 2026https://podcasts.groong.org/505Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - January 9, 2026TopicsVenezuelaUkraine WarRussia-Iran RelationsTRIPP and Russian-Armenian RelationsGuestFyodor Lukyanov (Фёдор Алекса́ндрович Лукья́нов)HostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 502 | Recorded: January 8, 2026SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/502VIDEO: https://youtu.be/d1XxQHSZUEE#FyodorLukyanov #RussiaGeopolitics #UkraineWar #IranIsrael #VenezuelaCrisis #TRIPPSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Groong Week in Review - Dec 28, 2025In this milestone 500th episode of *Groong Week in Review*, we assess how major external crises are shaping Armenia's strategic environment in 2025, examine the stalled Armenia–Azerbaijan process, analyze Russia's posture around TRIPP, and discuss the implications of a change in the U.S. ambassador. The episode concludes with an extended year-end review, where each participant evaluates their 2025 predictions from a year ago (in Episode 403), and presents high-, medium-, and low-probability forecasts for 2026.TopicsForeign Crises Affecting ArmeniaArmenia-Azerbaijan SagaRussia and TRIPPChange of US AmbassadorYear-End Review & OutlookGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 500 | Recorded: January 31, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/500Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In this episode of the New Lines Contours Podcast, host Eugene Chausovsky sits down with Farid Shafiyev, the chairman of the Center of Analysis and International Relations and former ambassador for Azerbaijan to Canada and Czechia. Together, they discuss the developments over the last year in diplomatic relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the economic interests foreign powers have in the region, and how the South Caucasus will develop in the future.

Groong Week in Review - December 21, 2025Topics:Ukraine War and EU RiftSiege on Etchmiadzin and the ChurchPeace Dividend or Political TheaterTRIPP and Competing Power ClaimsGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 498 | Recorded: December 23, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/498VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Ui21tqO_d2U#ArmenianChurch #Etchmiadzin #TRIPP #ArmeniaPolitics #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

New economic cooperation plans take shape between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Trump Administration proposes an international roadway through southern Armenia linking Azerbaijan to its Western Exclave, bordering Turkey.

On today's episode we discuss internal border delimitation in the early Soviet Union. Our discussion covers a wide geography - from Central Asia to the South Caucasus to the Ukrainian-Russia borderlands. How did internal borders get delimited after the establishment of Soviet power in the 1920s and 30s? What role did borders play in nation building? And how do economic factors shape the border delimitation process?Our guest today is Stephan Rindlisbacher author of the book Borders in Red: Managing Diversity in the Early Soviet Unionhttps://www.cornellpress.cornell.edu/book/9781501780585/borders-in-red/Stephan Rindlisbacher (European University Viadrina Frankfurt, Oder) is a researcher specializing in Eurasian history. In his ongoing projects, he focuses on the early Soviet state's national policies and their regional implementation. This includes Ukraine, the South Caucasus and Central Asia.

Groong Week in Review - December 14, 2025Topics:  - Armenia between EU and Russia  - Church–state confrontation in Armenia  - Artsakh concessions and return debate  - Economy, debt, and governance  - NSS raids Artsakh officesGuest: Arthur Khachatryan, MPHosts:  - Hovik Manucharyan  - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 496 | Recorded: December 15, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/496#ArmeniaPolitics #EUvsRussia #ArmenianChurch #Artsakh #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In this episode of War & Peace, Olga Oliker and Alissa de Carbonnel are joined by Joshua Kucera, Crisis Group's Senior Analyst for the South Caucasus, to discuss the increasingly difficult situation facing people displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh in Armenia after Azerbaijan regained control of the territory in a rapid 2023 offensive. They unpack the refugees' mounting challenges–from insecure housing after cuts to government assistance to discrimination–and their growing frustration with Armenia's government. They also examine the role refugees from Karabakh might play in Armenia's 2026 elections and peace efforts with Azerbaijan, their hopes of return, and what the EU can do to help Yerevan respond.For more, check out our Armenian-Azerbaijani Conflict and Europe & Central Asia pages. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Groong Week in Review - December 7, 2025Topics1988 Earthquake RememberedPashinyan's War on the Armenian ChurchEU-Armenia RelationsNagorno-Karabakh Negotiation DocumentsARAR Foundation PollGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 494 | Recorded: December 8, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/494Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - December 1, 2025Topics:US and VenezuelaPotential for New War on IranIs Azerbaijan a “Middle Power”?Europe's Confused Geopolitical IdentityArmenia's Confused GeopoliticsGuest: Eldar MamedovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 492 | Recorded: November 29, 2025VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SjcJMIis7sgSHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/492#IranCrisis #AzerbaijanPolitics #EuropeanGeopolitics #ArmeniaSecurity #SouthCaucasus #GlobalPowerPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Russia's war with Ukraine is about to enter yet another winter. Meanwhile in the US, Donald Trump is turning his attention to Russia's southern border in an effort to woo the nations of the South Caucasus with diplomacy. What are the US' goals and what does it hope to gain in pulling these nations closer while Russia is distracted in its fight against NATO to the West? Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to make sense of the latest developments. And for more analysis of the region, go to https://geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter/ to get access to our free newsletter as well as our NEW special report: Reviving NATO's Eastern Line, by GPF Senior Analyst Antonia Colibasanu. This report is available for a limited time.

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

Azerbaijan: Peace in the South Caucasus. Ambassador Elin Suleymanov 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