Russia has joined the global chorus calling for de-escalation of the tensions between India and Pakistan, which have been exacerbated by the deadly attack in Pahalgam. As diplomatic efforts intensify, Pakistani leaders are reaching out to international allies to ensure that their side of the story is heard and to push for a neutral investigation into the incident.
On Saturday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a phone conversation with his Indian counterpart, S. Jaishankar, discussing the rising tensions that threaten to spiral into military conflict. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov emphasized the importance of resolving issues between New Delhi and Islamabad through diplomatic and political means, referencing the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999 as guiding frameworks for peace.
This diplomatic push from Russia came shortly after EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, and US Vice President JD Vance both urged restraint and dialogue from both sides. While Russia’s traditionally close ties with India date back to the Cold War era, its call for diplomacy signals caution amidst the growing influence of the United States in India’s foreign policy.
Despite condemnation of the Pahalgam attack from global leaders, including US President Donald Trump, the response has been relatively restrained. The US, while calling the attack “terrorist” and “unconscionable,” refrained from directly blaming Pakistan, a departure from previous administrations that were more inclined to use Kashmir as a flashpoint.
India’s diplomatic efforts to rally global support for its position have faltered somewhat, as it struggles to provide concrete evidence linking Pakistan to the Pahalgam attack. This lack of substantiated proof has weakened its stance and dampened the momentum it hoped to build through international support.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has been actively reaching out to friendly nations and Western powers, aiming to ensure its perspective is recognized, especially as India presses on with its stance on the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his country’s call for a neutral investigation into the Pahalgam incident, accusing India of making unfounded allegations. In a meeting with the Turkish Ambassador, Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, Sharif underscored Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms, while expressing readiness to cooperate with an impartial investigation. He also thanked Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his support and call for peace in South Asia.
In another diplomatic move, Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, briefing him on the escalating situation. Dar condemned India’s unilateral actions, particularly its suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, which he described as a violation of international obligations. Gerapetritis expressed concern over the rising tensions and backed Pakistan’s call for an independent investigation, emphasizing the need for restraint.
Additionally, Dar held a discussion with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, where he expressed Pakistan’s grave concern over India’s provocative actions. Cassis praised Pakistan’s measured response and supported the proposal for a credible international investigation. Switzerland also offered to facilitate the process, reinforcing its commitment to impartiality.
As the situation continues to unfold, Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts remain focused on securing international support for an objective and transparent inquiry into the Pahalgam attack, while maintaining restraint in its response to India’s actions. The growing backing for a neutral investigation from key international players like Turkiye, Greece, and Switzerland highlights the global concern over the potential for further escalation in the region.
