Russia Steps Into India-Pakistan Conflict: “Ready to Act”

Russia is signaling readiness to intervene diplomatically in the rising tensions between India and Pakistan, both nuclear-armed neighbors.

Lavrov Meets Pakistani Foreign Minister

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar on Sunday, according to Reuters.

Focus on Rising Tensions

Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the talks paid “special attention” to the “sharply increased tensions” between New Delhi and Islamabad.

Russia Offers to Mediate Kashmir Dispute

Lavrov reportedly offered Russia’s help in resolving the Kashmir conflict, especially after last month’s deadly terror attack on Indian tourists.

“Ready to Act”

Russia said it is “ready to act” toward a political solution—if both India and Pakistan are open to such assistance.

Lavrov Also Spoke With India

The offer came just two days after Lavrov also spoke with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, urging peaceful resolution.

Fears of Military Escalation

India has blamed Pakistan for the April 22 attack in Kashmir. Pakistan’s Information Minister has warned that India may be preparing a military response.

Kashmir Claimed by Both Nations

Kashmir, a Muslim-majority region, is claimed by both nations and has been the site of several violent conflicts over the decades.

Historic Ties Between Russia and India

Russia has been India’s top arms supplier for decades, with close ties dating back to the Soviet era.

India Shifting Toward the West?

Despite past friendship, Newsweek reported in December that India has “sharply reduced” arms orders from Russia and is now turning to Western suppliers.