JD Vance's visit to Armenia is notably the first for a sitting U.S. Vice President, symbolizing a strategic geopolitical move to encircle Iran while asserting influence in a region seen as Russia's soft underbelly. The trip aimed to foster trade, energy, and security deals which are expected to help Armenia lessen its dual influences from Russia and Iran. Following his stop in Armenia, Vance proceeded to Azerbaijan, signaling a broader interest in strengthening U.S. ties in the region.

The exclusion of Georgia from Vance's itinerary is particularly significant, as the country has been perceived to be re-aligning with Russian influence under the Georgian Dream government. This pivot stands in stark contrast to Armenia's current trajectory towards a pro-Western stance. Historically, U.S. Vice Presidents have visited both Azerbaijan and Georgia, such as Dick Cheney in 2008, but the current diplomatic choices highlight a clear preference for Armenia, underscoring an evolving regional dynamic where U.S. interests align more closely with Yerevan than Tbilisi.

This shift may have profound implications for regional security and geopolitics, as U.S. involvement could potentially redefine alliances within the South Caucasus. As Armenia distances itself from Moscow's sphere of influence, other nations in the area may recalibrate their foreign policies in response to this changing landscape, either embracing the U.S. presence or bolstering their ties with Russia.