Nearly six months since the end of the Third Karabakh War, tensions persist along the Armenia-Azerbaijan borders as both nations trade accusations. Discontent with Russia’s failure to protect Karabakh’s residents has prompted Armenia to reconsider its Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) membership, raising the question of who could fill the void. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan continues strengthening its military, expressing concern over Armenia’s armament. The debate over Armenia’s coat of arms and anthem further complicates the situation, with Turkey and Azerbaijan questioning the symbolism. Amidst these uncertainties, the region grapples with the future, the potential for peace, and the risk of further conflict.

What is the future of the region? What role should the US and western European countries play in preventing another outbreak of violence in the region? Is a renewed war still possible? Why are the Armenian Coat of Arms and its anthem irritating Azerbaijan? Should the Russians leave the region, and if so, who might substitute for them?