Russia Refuses to Mediate Between India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan; Sharif Faces Setback

Moscow/New Delhi: Russia has made it clear that it will not act as a mediator in disputes between India and Pakistan or Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Russian government emphasized that New Delhi and Islamabad should resolve their issues based on existing agreements, including the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration.

Official Statement from Russia
In response to questions regarding its role in easing regional tensions, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Russia does not mediate between these countries. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified:
“Russia does not act as a mediator between India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. If any of these countries request assistance, we are ready to help resolve differences, but no such request is currently in place.”

Russia-Pakistan Relations
The Ministry also highlighted the improving bilateral relations between Russia and Pakistan. In 2025, several high-level meetings were held, including discussions between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, signaling both nations’ intent to strengthen cooperation. Plans are underway to expand trade and economic collaboration through 2030.

Russia has shown interest in investing in Pakistan, particularly in steel mills and railway infrastructure. Pakistan, in turn, reportedly attempted to involve Russia as a mediator with India, but Russia has so far aligned with India’s position and declined to intervene.

India-Russia Strategic Ties Remain Strong
Russia has been a long-standing and trusted partner of India, whereas Pakistan is often aligned with the US bloc. Pakistan’s efforts to deepen ties with Russia, aided in part by China, have drawn international attention. Despite these developments, Russia continues to maintain its historic strategic partnership with India while keeping a cautious stance regarding mediation in regional disputes.