Islamabad Seeks Russia’s Help to Avert War with India After Kashmir Attack
Pakistan intensified its diplomatic efforts to avert a potential war with India by seeking Russia’s intervention, as tensions escalated over the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
Pakistan’s Plea for Mediation
Pakistan urgently sought Russia’s intervention to de-escalate tensions with India following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians. Pakistan’s envoy in Moscow, Muhammad Khalid Jamali, appealed for Russia to mediate, referencing the 1972 Simla Accord and 1999 Lahore Declaration for bilateral resolution. This plea comes amid 11 consecutive nights of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) and India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, actions Pakistan labels as provocations threatening regional peace. Russia, a long-standing Indian ally, expressed readiness to facilitate dialogue if both nations agree.
Context of Rising Tensions
The Pahalgam attack, attributed to Pakistan-backed terrorists, prompted India to impose punitive measures, including banning Pakistani goods, closing the Attari border, and restricting airspace. Pakistan denies involvement, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif calling for a neutral probe. However, Islamabad’s test-firing of a ballistic missile on May 3 and threats of nuclear retaliation if India strikes have heightened fears of conflict. Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claimed India planned an imminent attack, a claim unfulfilled but fueling paranoia. These developments follow India’s diplomatic offensive, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar briefing allies on Pakistan’s alleged terrorism support.
Russia’s Neutral Stance
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, in talks with Pakistan’s Ishaq Dar and India’s Jaishankar, emphasized resolving disputes diplomatically under the Simla Accord, avoiding third-party mediation. Russia’s offer reflects its balancing act: maintaining strong ties with India while engaging Pakistan through trade and military cooperation. President Vladimir Putin condemned the Pahalgam attack, supporting justice but urging restraint. Analysts note Russia’s limited influence, given the deep-rooted India-Pakistan rivalry over Kashmir, a flashpoint since 1947.
