**Azerbaijan and Armenia Forge Historic Peace Accord Under Trump at White House**

Leaders from Azerbaijan and Armenia reached an agreement aimed at resolving decades of conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region during a historic summit held at the White House.

In a groundbreaking moment for the Caucasus region, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan shook hands after signing a peace deal, heralded by President Trump as a significant milestone. "It’s been a long time coming," Trump remarked, framing the agreement as a resolution to violent disputes dating back over three decades.

The agreement includes plans to reopen essential transportation routes previously restricted due to tensions over Nagorno-Karabakh, an area claimed by both nations since the late 20th century. Trump's assertion that the warring nations had committed to ending their hostilities "forever" provided a backdrop of optimism. "We lost a lot of years being preoccupied with wars and occupation and bloodshed," Aliyev stated following the meeting.

As part of the deal, the US government will assist in establishing a crucial transit corridor named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, which is designed to link Azerbaijan with its exclave, Nakhchivan, through Armenian territory. The leaders’ agreement lays the groundwork for improved business, travel, and diplomatic ties, a stark transition from decades of animosity.

Both leaders lauded Trump's efforts, calling the summit a transformative achievement for peace in the region, with Aliyev praising him for performing what he deemed a "miracle." The peace process further shifts the geopolitical balance in the area, reducing the historical influence once held by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who had acted as a mediator in previous negotiations.

As the US seeks to expand its role in the region, questions remain about the durability of this peace agreement. Notably, concerns linger about the potential resurgence of conflict, with Armenian citizens apprehensive about the implications of peace amidst historical grievances. The summit paves the way for a new dynamic in international relations, with anticipation surrounding Trump's forthcoming meeting with Putin in Alaska.