The U.S. Senate voted unanimously, with a resounding 100-0 decision, to suspend assistance to Azerbaijan for the next two years.
The unprecedented move comes amidst growing concerns that Azerbaijan may be gearing up for a potential invasion of its neighboring country, Armenia,
As reported by Conservative Brief on Friday, December 22, 2023, the momentous decision marked the unanimous approval of the Armenian Protection Act.
This legislation, introduced by Senator Gary Peters (D-Michigan), stands as a testament to the Senate’s collective worry about the escalating tensions in the region.
The Act’s primary aim is to curtail any potential military actions by Azerbaijan against Armenia.
The Senate’s bipartisan consensus, with senators from both sides of the aisle rallying behind the Armenian Protection Act, underscores the gravity of the situation and the shared belief in the necessity of preventive measures.
The unanimous vote, a rare occurrence in the often-divided Senate, highlights the bipartisan commitment to averting a potential conflict and maintaining stability in the South Caucasus region.
Senator Gary Peters, the architect behind the Armenian Protection Act, emphasized the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent any military aggression.
The Act specifically targets security assistance provided to Azerbaijan and seeks to create a moratorium on such aid for the fiscal years 2024 and 2025.
The legislation includes provisions that prevent President Joe Biden from issuing a waiver to continue aid to Azerbaijan, underscoring the Senate’s determination to halt any potential threat to regional peace.
The move reflects a broader international concern about the delicate geopolitical balance in the South Caucasus.
The longstanding tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the Nagorno-Karabakh region have been a source of instability in the region, and the Senate’s unanimous decision signals a united front in addressing these concerns.
The Armenian Protection Act not only serves as a preventative measure but also sends a clear message about the United States’ commitment to upholding peace and stability in regions grappling with geopolitical complexities.
The Senate’s decisive action showcases a rare display of unity, emphasizing the importance of international diplomacy and collaboration in averting potential conflicts.
While the Armenian Protection Act awaits further legislative steps, its unanimous approval in the Senate is a significant milestone.
The House of Representatives will now consider the Act, and if passed, it will proceed to President Joe Biden for final approval.
The Act stands as a pivotal piece of legislation in the broader context of U.S. foreign policy, demonstrating the nation’s dedication to fostering peace and stability in regions facing geopolitical challenges.