World News
Russia and China Urge Pakistan and Afghanistan to End Cross-Border Clashes Amid Rising Tensions
As tensions flare once again along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, global powers are stepping in with urgent calls for peace. Both Russia and China have appealed to Pakistan and Afghanistan to immediately halt cross-border hostilities and return to diplomatic dialogue.
As tensions flare once again along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, global powers are stepping in with urgent calls for peace. Both Russia and China have appealed to Pakistan and Afghanistan to immediately halt cross-border hostilities and return to diplomatic dialogue.
The renewed violence has sparked concern not just in the region but also among key international stakeholders who fear that continued clashes could destabilize South and Central Asia.
Russia Calls for Immediate De-escalation
Speaking from Moscow, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed concern over the military confrontations.
“Direct military clashes do not bode well. We hope they will cease as soon as possible,” Peskov said, emphasizing that Russia is closely monitoring developments.
Notably, Russia remains the only country to have officially recognized the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, while also maintaining strong diplomatic ties with Pakistan. This places Moscow in a delicate but potentially influential position in the ongoing crisis.
Peskov also confirmed that a visit by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Russia is currently being prepared, though no official date has been announced. According to state media reports, the visit could take place as early as next week.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova urged both nations to step back from confrontation.
“We call on our friends Afghanistan and Pakistan to abandon this dangerous confrontation and return to the negotiating table,” she said, reinforcing Moscow’s push for a political and diplomatic solution.
China Expresses Deep Concern Over Escalation
Echoing similar concerns, China also appealed for calm and restraint. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that Beijing is “deeply concerned” about the escalating conflict and saddened by the reported casualties.
As a close neighbor and strategic partner to both countries, China emphasized that de-escalation is in the fundamental interest of both nations and the wider region.
Mao reaffirmed that China supports efforts to combat terrorism but stressed that differences must be resolved through dialogue and consultation, not violence.
She also revealed that China has been mediating between the two countries through diplomatic channels and stands ready to play a constructive role in easing tensions. When asked about the safety of Chinese nationals in the region, Mao assured that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide necessary assistance if required.
Why This Crisis Matters
The Pakistan–Afghanistan border has long been a sensitive and volatile region. Any prolonged confrontation risks worsening humanitarian conditions, increasing displacement, and further destabilizing an already fragile security environment.
With major powers like Russia and China calling for restraint, the focus now shifts to whether Islamabad and Kabul will prioritize diplomacy over confrontation.
At a time when the region cannot afford another prolonged conflict, the world is watching closely — hoping dialogue prevails over escalation.
