Conversations on Groong - May 3, 2026
In this Conversations on Groong episode, Hrair Balian joins us to discuss his book Anatomy of Peacemaking: Nagorno Karabakh Conflict & Missed Opportunities, the failure of diplomacy around Artsakh, and what Armenia should learn from the long collapse of the peace process. The conversation also looks at the Iran war, US and Israeli goals in the region, the TRIPP/Zangezur Corridor and its security impact on Armenia, and the role of outside powers in shaping outcomes in the South Caucasus. The episode closes with a discussion of Armenia’s June parliamentary elections, opposition repression, election monitoring, and whether international observers will judge the vote by facts on the ground or political convenience.
Mr. Balian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Peacemaking-Nagorno-Karabakh-Opportunities-Rethinking/dp/3032124891
Topics:
US-Iran war and failed diplomacy
TRIPP and Armenia’s security risks
Karabakh negotiations and missed chances
Pashinyan’s Artsakh policy reversal
Armenia’s June elections and monitoring
Guest: Hrair Balian
Hosts:
Episode 538 | Recorded: April 30, 2026
SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/538
#HrairBalian #Groong #Armenia #Artsakh #NagornoKarabakh #TRIPP #ZangezurCorridor #ArmenianElections
