Podcasts about south caucasus

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

Conversations on Groong - November 30, 2025Topics: Venezuela Ukraine War Gaza TRIPP in ArmeniaGuest: Matthew HohHosts: Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 491 | Recorded: November 29, 2025Show Notes: https://podcasts.groong.org/491Video: https://youtu.be/ZZ_n9Mwum30#Venezuela #AmericaFirst #USForeignPolicy #TRIPP #UkraineWarSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Dr Eric Rudenshiold joins Neil Melvin to examine regional change, great-power competition and Washington's renewed engagement within the Caspian region. The Caspian region is being reshaped by new political and economic dynamics as Central Asia and the South Caucasus deepen regional cooperation and navigate the competing ambitions of Russia, China and a newly engaged US. President Trump's first presidential-level C5+1 summit marks a notable shift in Washington's approach to a region long viewed as peripheral. In this episode of Global Security Briefing, Neil Melvin is joined by Dr Eric Rudenshiold, Research Director at the Caspian Policy Center and former NSC Director for Central Asia, to assess how regional actors are adapting to changing power balances and what Washington's renewed focus could mean for future stability and connectivity. The discussion explores: Emerging geopolitical and economic trends across the Caspian Russia's and China's evolving roles and competing integration projects Growing regional cooperation and expanding Caspian links The impact of US re-engagement and whether it signals a lasting shift

Groong Week in Review - November 16, 2025Topics:Ukraine and Iran-Israel ConflictsC5+1 in Washington DCVagharshapat/Etchmiadzin MunicipalGuest: Sergei MelkonianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 486 | Recorded: November 17, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/486VIDEO: https://youtu.be/53k2AVy6gAA#ArmeniaPolitics #SouthCaucasus #UkraineWar #IranIsraelSubscribe 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.

This episode of Talk Eastern Europe, Adam and Alexandra begin with a roundup of key regional developments including Russia's renewed strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and a major corruption scandal involving the state nuclear operator Energoatom. They also discuss Viktor Orbán's trip to Washington and touch on shifting dynamics in the South Caucasus.In the main interview, Alexandra speaks with Slovenian journalist Uroš Škerl Kramberger from Ostro about a recent tragic incident that has shaken Slovenia and reignited public debate over policing, minority rights, and Roma inclusion. Together, they explore the political response, the rise ofpopulist rhetoric ahead of next year's elections, and what this says about Slovenia's broader democratic trajectory.Help us reach our goal of 70 Patrons by the end of 2025! Join our community here:www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope

Groong Week in Review - November 2, 2025Topics:Ukraine war status and U.S.–Russia dynamicsChurch–state tensions and religious prosecutionsOpposition arrests, trials, and civil libertiesBorder demarcation, enclavesGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 483 | Recorded: November 3, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/483VIDEO: https://youtu.be/KqMS6eji7sc#UkraineWar #ArmeniaPolitics #ChurchPersecution #OppositionCrackdownSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - November 1, 2025Topics:  Timing and intent for an Israel and Iran clash  Unfinished business from the June war  US role, limited support or full entry  Iran's escalation ladder and Caucasus spillover scenariosGuest: Trita ParsiHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 482 | Recorded: October 30, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/482VIDEO: https://youtu.be/hn0UM3BPYOc#TritaParsi #IsraelIran #MiddleEast #USForeignPolicy #Iran #Israel #SouthCaucasus #Armenia #StraitOfHormuz #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In this episode of The Open Door, panelists Thomas Storck, Andrew Sorokowski, and Christopher Zehnder interview Felix Corley on his book Catholicos and Commissar: The Armenian Church under the Soviet Regime (October29, 2025)Part of a two-volume set, this volume explores the history of the Armenian Apostolic Church under Soviet rule. Initially flourishing across the Russian Empire, the Church briefly enjoyed greater religious freedom after the February 1917 revolution. However, the Bolshevik regime imposed severe restrictions after October 1917: churches were seized, clergy were taxed and jailed, religious education was banned, and international ties were severed. By 1938, Stalin's purges had devastated the Church, culminating in the murder of Catholicos Khoren and the closure of almost all churches.Despite this, a partial revival occurred after World War II. In 1945, Stalin permitted the election of a new Church leader, Catholicos Gevorg, who supported Soviet territorial claims and repatriation efforts. Although minimal, the Church's presence in the South Caucasus and southern Russia was gradually restored.The book is based on extensive archival research, memoirs, and interviews, offering a vivid account of how the Church and its followers struggled to maintain faith under an oppressive regime.Volume 2 continues the history of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the Soviet Union, focusing on the leadership of Catholicos Vazgen I, who served from 1955 until 1994-the longest tenure of any religious leader in the USSR. Chosen by the KGB after a lack of suitable Soviet-based candidates, Vazgen publicly supported the Soviet regime but worked quietly to strengthen the Church's presence at home and abroad. The Church's seminary at Echmiadzin grew, and diaspora ties were cautiously encouraged, though most parishes remained isolated.Despite the appearance of normalcy, the Church operated under heavy restrictions. Major decisions were often made by the state, and KGB agents were placed among the clergy. The harsh anti-religious campaigns of the Khrushchev era forced the closure of many churches. After Khrushchev's fall, restrictions eased somewhat, but the Church remained passive, neither resisting nor expanding.Major change came under Gorbachev's reforms in the late 1980s. Long-suppressed Armenian national aspirations, especially around Nagorno-Karabakh, erupted, followed by the 1988 earthquake. The Church responded with new community efforts. Though initially cautious about independence, Catholicos Vazgen eventually played a key role in legitimising the new Armenian state and reaffirming the Church's place as its official religion.Like Volume One, this book draws from extensive archival research, memoirs, and interviews to tell the story of how the Armenian Church and its followers navigated Soviet repression and shifting political landscapes.

Abdylla GeldiyevFounder & Managing DirectorUndiscovered Frontiershttps://undiscoveredfrontiers.com/Abdylla Geldiyev is the founder and managing director of Undiscovered Frontiers, a boutique travel company based in Michigan. A lifelong traveler and advocate for immersive, culturally rich experiences in Central Asia, his journey into tourism began in 2005, when he was asked to guide an Italian writer/enthusiast researching the native dogs of Turkmenistan's Karakum Desert. What started as a chance opportunity quickly grew into a passion and ultimately a career.Over the years, Abdylla built a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable and trusted guides in Turkmenistan, leading archaeological, cultural, and special-interest tours for international operators, museums, travel clubs, and guidebook writers. Later, in a sales role, he expanded his expertise across Central Asia, the Caucasus, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.In 2016, Abdylla moved with his family to the United States to pursue the American Dream. After completing his studies in business at Loyola University and sharing his valuable and hands on experience with U.S.-based travel companies, he launched Undiscovered Frontiers together with his curious son, Iskender, offering transformative journeys across Central Asia, the South Caucasus, Turkey, and beyond. Fluent in four languages, Abdylla brings both a global perspective and deep local knowledge to every journey he curates.summaryIn this episode, Jason Elkins interviews Abdylla Geldiyev, founder of Undiscovered Frontiers, about travel in Central Asia, particularly the Five Stans. Abdylla shares insights on the unique experiences travelers can have in these off-the-beaten-path destinations, the growing popularity of the region, and the cultural richness that awaits visitors. He also discusses his personal journey from Turkmenistan to the United States and the establishment of his travel company, emphasizing the importance of authentic cultural interactions and unique travel experiences.takeawaysUndiscovered Frontiers offers off-the-beaten-path experiences in Central Asia.The Five Stans are gaining popularity among travelers seeking unique adventures.Each Stan has its own unique beauty and cultural heritage.Travelers often find that their experiences exceed their expectations.Tourism infrastructure in the Stans is improving, with investments in hotels and transportation.Cultural interactions with locals enhance the travel experience significantly.Abdylla's journey from Turkmenistan to the U.S. showcases the power of resilience and opportunity.Undiscovered Frontiers aims to provide innovative and creative travel experiences.Traveling to Turkmenistan requires a letter of invitation and a local guide.The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding and connecting with different cultures. Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

El programa de hoy se emitió en vivo desde Tomelloso, en la provincia de Ciudad Real, con motivo de la Fiesta de la Vendimia, y aprovechamos para hablar precisamente de eso: del vino. Os contamos cuán antiguo es el vino, quiénes fueron sus inventores, según los últimos hallazgos arqueológicos. También os hablamos de cuál es el vino más antiguo que se ha conservado en estado líquido, una rareza que requiere de unas condiciones de conservación excepcionales. Si queréis leer los artículos científicos en que nos hemos basado, el primero es "Early Neolithic wine of Georgia in the South Caucasus", de Patrick McGovern et al. Lo podéis consultar gratuitamente en la página de PNAS: https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1714728114 El segundo es "New archaeochemical insights into Roman wine from Baetica", de Daniel Cosano et al. También lo podéis leer gratuitamente en la página del Journal of Archaeological Science: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352409X24002645 Si os interesa la ciencia del vino, le dedicamos un episodio en nuestro pódcast hermano, La Brújula de la Ciencia: buscad allí el capítulo s11e09. Este programa se emitió originalmente el 2 de octubre de 2025. Podéis escuchar el resto de audios de Más de Uno en la app de Onda Cero y en su web, ondacero.es

44-Day War: A Tale of BetrayalGroong Week in Review - September 28, 2025TopicsPashinyan's rise and Western backingBreakdown of talks and secret meetingsFailures and propaganda during the warAftermath, revisionism, and political responsibilityHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 476 | Recorded: September 28, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/476Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Sep 19, Civil Contract, Opposition Inaction, Electric NetworkGroong Week in Review - September 21, 2025TopicsSeptember 19, 2023, two years on  Artsakh: blockade, starvation, Yerevan's position, ethnic cleansing, and lasting effects on Armenia.Civil Contract's 7th Congress and the “Fourth Republic”**    New constitution path after 2026, Alma-Ata framing, EU track, and institutionalizing peace. Fourth Republic. Brand or blueprint?Opposition dynamics before 2026**    Impeachment versus election focus, fragmentation, and what might sway undecided voters.Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA)**    Government “surgical measures,” nationalization vs top-tier foreign manager, and investor risk signals.GuestArthur MartirosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 474 | Recorded: September 22, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/474Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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