Absent explanation from the Trump administration, there are a number of possible rationalizations, from Islamic State to the glut of fake Kyrgyz passports traveling the world.
Amid a spat with Turkey, the momentum appears to be on the side of those seeking formal American recognition. But some supporters wonder if this is the right time.
Yerevan has been trying to resist pressure from Washington to cut ties with its southern neighbor. But Armenia's private banks have been making it more difficult to do business.
Republicans have successfully branded their political foes as “socialists” in the eyes of many Russian-speakers, said an expert on the émigré community.
Washington is increasingly assertive in its criticism of Armenia’s ties with Russia and Iran, but it’s not clear whether it has the clout to do anything about Yerevan’s allies.