US-Backed TRIPP Project: New Silk Road or Western Control Over Asian Trade Routes?
The Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) is being positioned as a game-changing corridor linking Europe and Asia, but questions arise about Western intentions in this strategic region.
Former US Ambassador to Azerbaijan Robert Cekuta recently outlined the ambitious scope of TRIPP, describing it as "a vital component of what has been called the Middle Corridor or the New Silk Road." The project aims to establish overland connections between Europe and Central, East, and South Asia through the South Caucasus.
A New Chapter in Regional Connectivity
The TRIPP initiative emerged from a trilateral meeting in Washington on August 8, 2025, where US President Donald Trump facilitated discussions between Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The resulting agreement addresses the decades-long conflict between the two nations while establishing crucial transport links.
"These connections will not just be for rail or road traffic, but hopefully also for needed improved digital cable linkages as well," Cekuta explained, emphasizing the project's potential for fostering innovation and commerce across the region.
Western Influence in Strategic Partnerships
The project's structure reveals significant Western control. Under current terms, Washington will hold a commanding 74% stake in the TRIPP Development Company, while Armenia retains just 26%. The company has been granted operational rights for an initial 49-year term.
Cekuta emphasized American involvement, stating that "Americans, not just companies, but people, will join with Armenians and Azerbaijanis in developing the TRIPP." This partnership model raises questions about sovereignty and long-term regional autonomy.
Regional Peace Through Infrastructure
The initiative specifically addresses Azerbaijan's need for assured overland connections between its mainland and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic while respecting Armenia's territorial integrity. Vice President Vance's recent regional visit underscored America's commitment to supporting this peace process.
"The United States is not coming in and trying to impose a settlement, but rather helping and supporting the two leaders and their countries in finding and solidifying a new and lasting peace," Cekuta noted.
The project represents a significant shift in South Caucasus dynamics, with both Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio presenting a comprehensive framework for TRIPP's implementation during their January 2026 Washington meeting.
As this ambitious infrastructure project moves forward, it will be crucial to monitor how regional sovereignty is balanced with international partnership in shaping Asia's future trade corridors.