Russia Offers to Mediate Between Taliban and Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions
Russia has expressed readiness to mediate between the Taliban administration and the Pakistani government amid escalating tensions between the two sides.
In a statement on Friday, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Moscow considers the current state of Taliban-Pakistan relations to be concerning, reflecting the broader concerns of the international community. She stressed that resolving these disputes is only possible through political and diplomatic dialogue.
Zakharova noted that there was international consensus on the need to prevent further escalation in Taliban-Pakistan ties, and that Russia, in coordination with regional partners, is working to create conditions for de-escalation. She added that Russia possesses the necessary experience in mediation and is willing to play a role in achieving peace if needed.
Alongside Russia, Iran has also offered mediation multiple times in the past, though neither party has entered into new discussions. The unprecedented rise in tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan has alarmed Taliban allies including Russia, Qatar, and Iran.
The recent strains between the Taliban and Islamabad have intensified, particularly following an uptick in militant attacks along Afghanistan’s eastern border. Pakistan has accused the Taliban of harboring armed opposition groups, allegations that the Taliban administration has consistently rejected, instead citing strained relations with Pakistan.
Diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis have so far failed, and continued friction may negatively impact regional stability.
