Moscow steps in, urges dialogue as Pakistan-Afghanistan crisis deepens

Russia, China push Pakistan-Afghanistan de-escalation

Russia has once again stepped in with an offer to mediate, urging both sides to pull back and resolve the crisis through dialogue as tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain high following Islamabad’s military offensive last month.

Zamir Kabulov, Moscow’s Special Representative for Afghanistan, said Russia is watching developments with growing concern and backs immediate de-escalation. He underlined that the focus must be on stopping the fighting and reopening diplomatic channels. “We are trying to find a compromise solution that would make it possible to stop the clashes and move to diplomacy,” he said.

Kabulov made clear that Russia is open to mediating, but only if both capitals formally request it together. “Russia will be ready to consider such an option if both sides simultaneously turn to it with a request for mediation. So far, this has not happened.”

He added that Moscow would not step in unilaterally or without the consent of both sides, signalling a cautious approach despite the worsening situation.

Even so, Kabulov suggested the likelihood of a wider war remains low for now.

Russia’s renewed offer comes amid rising international concern, with civilian casualties mounting and more people being displaced. Notably, Russia became the first country to officially recognise the Taliban government last year.

The move echoes similar appeals from China, which has urged restraint and dialogue. Over the past week, Wang Yi held calls with his Afghan and Pakistani counterparts to encourage talks.

China’s special envoy on Afghanistan has also been travelling between Kabul and Islamabad, while its embassies remain in close contact with officials. Beijing has said it will continue efforts to ease tensions and support reconciliation, even as the situation along the border remains volatile.