Russia expresses concern over escalation in Afghanistan-Pakistan clashes, urges dialogue

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, has expressed concern over what she described as an unprecedented and rapid escalation of armed clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

In a statement, Zakharova said regular military units, warplanes and heavy weapons were being used in the ongoing confrontations.

She noted that reports indicated casualties and injuries on both sides, with civilians also among the victims.

Zakharova strongly appealed to what she termed Russia’s friendly countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan, to avoid dangerous confrontations and prevent further escalation of tensions.

She urged both sides to return to the negotiation process and resolve their differences through political and diplomatic means.