U.S. President Donald Trump and the White House have issued a weak statement on April 24, on the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, once again failing to call the murder of 1.5 million Armenians a genocide, reports Zartonk Media.
However, it avoids the legal and historical term genocide, instead referring to the events as the Meds Yeghern. While it acknowledges that Armenians were “exiled and brutally massacred” and expresses solidarity with Armenian-Americans and Armenians around the world, it stops short of the explicit recognition long demanded by Armenian communities in the U.S. and worldwide.
This marks another clear departure from President Joe Biden, who formally recognized the Armenian Genocide in 2021 and used the term in three consecutive April 24 statements. Trump’s refusal to do so again represents a continued backtrack from that precedent.
It’s important to note that administrations have often used the Armenian phrase Meds Yeghern, or “Great Catastrophe,” as a form of verbal gymnastics to tip-toe around the term “genocide,” a word that carries legal effects and consequences, as well as undeniable historical and moral weight.
The 2026 statement also frames U.S.-Armenia relations around the administration’s “Board of Peace” and its stated goal of promoting stability across the South Caucasus.
The White House statement, titled “Presidential Message on Armenian Remembrance Day,” reads as follows:
“Today, we pay tribute to the countless Armenians who were exiled and brutally massacred during the Meds Yeghern. We stand in steadfast solidarity with every Armenian American and Armenians around the world during this day of remembrance for the devastating events that occurred over 100 years ago, which continue to live in the collective memories of these communities today.
This solemn chapter in human history will forever stand as a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Armenian people and the hope at the center of Christianity. We honor the profound strength and resolve displayed by the Armenians in overcoming the tremendous tragedies of the past and forging a greater future that is defined by enduring prosperity, security, and peace. We commit to standing with them.
Together, the United States and Armenia will continue our work toward building a more secure and prosperous world. My Administration is strengthening our strategic partnership by delivering significant opportunities for the Armenian people and promoting lasting stability across the South Caucasus region. And now, Americans and Armenians stand side by side on the historic Board of Peace, united in our purpose to usher in a new era of peace through strength.
This Armenian Remembrance Day, as we mourn the innocent souls who perished during the tragedy of the Meds Yeghern, we renew our sacred calling to protect the innocent, advance the cause for peace among all people, and cultivate a deep reverence for Almighty God, who sustains us through every trial and triumph.”
