JD Vance’s Baku joke steals spotlight as U.S. seals key defence and energy deals

A light-hearted joke by US Vice President JD Vance in Baku unexpectedly grabbed headlines during a high-stakes diplomatic visit. While discussing Azerbaijan’s leadership, Vance quipped that his wife Usha might “get ideas,” drawing laughs but also shifting attention to the unique political setup in the country. Behind the humor, however, major agreements were being signed on defence, AI, energy and security cooperation. The visit also connects to Washington’s broader regional push involving Armenia and the ambitious TRIPP corridor project.