Russia has offered to mediate Pakistan’s conflicts with India and Afghanistan, signaling its readiness to support regional peace amid ongoing tensions.
Speaking at a discussion organized by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad, Russian Ambassador Albert Khorev emphasized that Moscow stands ready to facilitate dialogue between Pakistan and its neighboring countries to address disputes and enhance regional security.
The ambassador highlighted Pakistan’s importance as a regional partner and its role in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Greater Eurasian Partnership, an initiative advocating that regional issues should be resolved by regional actors. Khorev noted that tensions in South Asia are often influenced by external states, underscoring the need for localized diplomatic solutions.
Relations between Islamabad and New Delhi have remained strained since the four-day conflict in May, triggered by Indian missile strikes inside Pakistan. The confrontation resulted in civilian and military casualties on both sides and saw Pakistan down several Indian fighter jets, including Rafales, while targeting over 20 Indian military sites in retaliation. A US-brokered ceasefire ended the clashes on May 10.
Tensions with Afghanistan escalated last month when Taliban forces attacked Pakistani border posts on October 12. Pakistan responded with retaliatory strikes inside Afghanistan, including Kabul and Kandahar, reportedly killing over 200 Taliban and affiliated militants, while 23 Pakistani soldiers were martyred defending the homeland. Islamabad has accused elements within the Afghan Taliban of acting at India’s behest to destabilize Pakistan.
Pakistan has welcomed mediation efforts from friendly nations, including Iran, and expressed regret over the breakdown of earlier peace negotiations mediated by Qatar and Turkiye. The Foreign Office reiterated that Islamabad supports initiatives aimed at resolving tensions with neighboring countries through dialogue.
Khorev’s remarks indicate Russia’s intent to play a constructive role in stabilizing South Asia by encouraging regional cooperation, countering terrorism, and promoting social and economic development. Pakistan’s engagement with Russia reflects its pursuit of multilateral solutions to ongoing security challenges with India and Afghanistan.
The offer of mediation comes at a critical time as Pakistan navigates complex security dynamics on multiple fronts, emphasizing diplomacy and regional partnerships as essential tools for peace.
