As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov reached out to Pakistan’s Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, offering Russia’s support in facilitating a peaceful resolution to the standoff following the deadly April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The conversation highlights Russia’s efforts to de-escalate the situation and promote diplomacy in a region with fragile relations.
On Sunday, Lavrov and Dar discussed the growing tensions between India and Pakistan, underscoring the urgent need for a political solution. Lavrov expressed Russia’s readiness to contribute to a peaceful settlement, provided both Islamabad and New Delhi are willing to engage in diplomatic dialogue. The discussion emphasized the importance of restraint and the avoidance of further escalation.
Lavrov’s call to Dar came just a day after he spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, addressing the rising tensions triggered by the terrorist attack. S. Jaishankar reiterated that the perpetrators of the attack must be brought to justice. He also expressed India’s commitment to holding those responsible accountable for the tragic loss of 26 lives. The terror attack, believed to be carried out by the Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group, has intensified cross-border tensions. Despite growing international support for an independent investigation, Pakistan has denied any involvement in the attack.
In response to the attack, India has taken a strong stance by imposing a ban on imports from Pakistan and suspending the entry of Pakistani ships into Indian ports. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has vowed to take firm action against those responsible for the attack and their supporters. The escalation in tensions has prompted a series of diplomatic moves, with countries like Iran and Malaysia offering to mediate and calling for an independent investigation into the attack’s origins.
The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss the situation further, with Pakistan planning to raise its concerns over India’s “aggressive actions,” including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. The international community continues to watch closely as the two nations navigate a delicate diplomatic path, striving to avoid further conflict.
