JD Vance Deletes Armenian Genocide Post, Triggering Diplomatic Ripples Across Washington and Ankara.
A now-deleted social media post from US Vice President JD Vance has stirred diplomatic attention after referencing the Armenian genocide following a wreath-laying ceremony in Armenia.
The original message, posted to Vance’s official X account, stated that he and his wife, Usha Vance, attended the ceremony to honor victims of the 1915 Armenian genocide — language that appeared to diverge from current White House positioning.
Armenians have long sought global recognition of the mass killings and deportations carried out between 1915 and 1917 under the Ottoman Empire, which they say resulted in approximately 1.5 million deaths.
However, Turkey strongly rejects the genocide characterization, disputing both intent and terminology.
Policy Sensitivities
For decades, Washington avoided officially labeling the events as genocide, citing concerns over relations with Ankara — a key NATO ally. In 2021, then-President Joe Biden formally used the term “genocide,” prompting sharp criticism from Turkey.
Following Tuesday’s incident, a spokesperson attributed the wording to staff members not part of the official delegation. The White House clarified that there had been no shift in US policy, referencing prior Armenian Remembrance Day statements.
Vance’s account later reposted a more measured message, accompanied by a photo of his handwritten note:
“In solemn remembrance of the lives lost, we honor the resilience and enduring spirit of the Armenian people.”
The episode underscores how a single phrase can reverberate through fragile diplomatic channels.
