No mention of return of Artsakh Armenians in PEACE Act – Kevork Hagopjian

US Congressman Darrell Issa, Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and a Republican, has introduced a bill aimed at reducing tensions and promoting engagement in the South Caucasus, titled the “PEACE Act.” Alpha News spoke with Kevork Hagopjian, a member of the Board of Directors of the Armenian National Committee of America – Western Region, about the topic.

When asked about the connection between the “Trump Route” and the bill, Hagopjian stated, “Despite its stated goal—to impose sanctions on senior Azerbaijani officials in the event of a new attack on Armenia—it contains a dangerous provision directly linked to the ‘Trump Route.’”

In response to a clarifying question about the nature of the sanctions, he explained:
“From financial sanctions to travel restrictions, bans on entry into the US, and limitations on the accounts of high-ranking Azerbaijani officials in the US. But there’s also a dangerous aspect—the fourth paragraph clearly states that those who oppose the August 8 agreement may be subject to sanctions and criminal prosecution. For the Armenian Cause, this resolution is unacceptable.”

According to Hagopjian, although the bill provides for sanctions against Azerbaijan in the event of future aggression, it remains incomplete. “There is no mention of ensuring the return of Artsakh Armenians, prisoners of war, or hostages. In other words, all these critical issues are left to the future.”