Global Leaders Urge India and Pakistan to Deescalate Rising Tensions

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Russia has joined calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan amid heightened tensions following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22. The incident has sparked diplomatic efforts from Pakistan’s leaders to diffuse the crisis and avoid military escalation.

On May 4, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, emphasizing the need for resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means in accordance with past agreements, including the Simla Agreement of 1972 and the Lahore Declaration of 1999. The conversation highlights Russia’s focus on diplomacy as tensions rise between the two countries.

Lavrov’s appeal came after Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, called for both sides to exercise restraint. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance also expressed concern over the possibility of broader regional conflict stemming from this incident.

Despite historically strong ties with India, Russia’s call for dialogue suggests a cautious approach as India’s increasing alignment with the United States complicates relationships in the region.

In Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated demands for an impartial investigation into the Pahalgam attack during a meeting with the Turkish ambassador. He stated that Pakistan is ready to cooperate with such an inquiry and welcomed Turkey‘s support for peace in the region.

Sharif condemned what he labeled as India’s baseless allegations against Pakistan and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to a credible international investigation. Similar sentiments were echoed by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in conversations with Greek and Swiss counterparts, urging the need for diplomatic restraint.

In related developments, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Islamabad on May 5 for discussions focused on reducing tensions between India and Pakistan. He is expected to meet with key Pakistani leaders to address concerns amid the current crisis.

On the international front, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the Pahalgam attack and emphasized that military solutions would exacerbate the conflict. He offered UN assistance in facilitating diplomatic approaches to peace.

The situation is fluid as Pakistan continues to navigate international support while refuting India’s accusations concerning the attack and engaging in diplomatic talks globally to manage tensions.