News - Prospects for a Peace Deal Between Armenia and Azerbaijan by 2026

The prospect of a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan in 2026 is not entirely improbable, states Sergey Markedonov, a senior researcher at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO). In an exclusive interview, Markedonov elaborated on the complexities and hurdles affecting the peace process. He emphasized that a peace agreement and the realization of peace itself are not synonymous terms. While the documents initially paraphrased in the previous year are based on historical accords like the Helsinki Final Act of 1975, they lack comprehensive reflection of essential policies. Markedonov highlighted key principles such as non-interference in internal affairs, raising questions on Armenia's constitutional matters and external involvement. The researcher also pointed out differences in approaches to peace, suggesting that Baku views peace not as a compromise but perhaps as a form of diktat. He inferred that genuine peace requires both sides to find workable formulas that allow leadership and states to save face while addressing opposition concerns. The path remains complicated, with a demonstrated willingness from both sides necessary for a genuine peaceful resolution.