Bill in the U.S. Aims to Restrict Assistance to Azerbaijan

A bipartisan bill titled the "ARMENIA Security Partnership Act" has been introduced in the U.S. Congress, initiated by the co-chairs of the Congressional Armenian Caucus, Gus Bilirakis and Frank Pallone.

The aim of the legislation is to prohibit the U.S. President from bypassing the restrictions of Section 907 concerning Azerbaijan, unless the Aliyev regime takes clear and measurable steps towards establishing sustainable peace with Armenia. Among these steps, the Congress members mentioned adherence to the commitments made by Azerbaijan under the joint declaration signed between Armenia and Azerbaijan on August 8, 2025, in Washington, the immediate and unconditional release of all Armenian prisoners and detained persons, the complete withdrawal of Azerbaijani troops from the sovereign territory of Armenia, the preservation of Armenian cultural and religious heritage, and other issues.

The bill also envisions a comprehensive review of U.S. security assistance to Armenia, aimed at enhancing the country's defense capacity and deterrent capabilities if Azerbaijan fails to meet these conditions.

According to Armenpress, the bill proposes that the U.S. Secretary of Defense prepare a report to present to the congressional defense committees, assessing the scale, dynamics, and nature of the threats present in Armenia's security environment, taking into account regional developments and changes in the balance of power. It aims to evaluate the historical and current tools of U.S. security assistance to Armenia, including international security cooperation programs, mechanisms for foreign military financing, as well as the effectiveness and impact of international military education and training programs.

The proposal suggests analyzing existing systemic gaps regarding Armenia's immediate and long-term defense needs in terms of defense measures, services, and military preparedness capabilities. It also includes presenting the immediate actions currently being undertaken by the U.S. Department of Defense to deepen security cooperation with Armenia and expand strategic partnerships.

Furthermore, political and operational recommendations are to be formulated to further enhance security support for Armenia, aimed at strengthening self-defense capabilities, developing deterrent mechanisms, and preventing potential aggression.

Co-sponsors of the "ARMENIA Security Partnership Act" include Congress members Brad Sherman, David Valadao, Chris Smith, Gabe Ammon, and others.