Moscow, October 13, 2025 – Russia has expressed profound alarm over the intensifying border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, warning that any escalation could jeopardize broader regional peace. In a strongly worded statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson highlighted the “worrisome escalation” along the Durand Line, where overnight fighting has claimed dozens of lives on both sides, including 23 Pakistani soldiers and nine Taliban fighters, according to official reports.
The ministry called on Islamabad and Kabul to “exercise maximum restraint” and resolve disputes through diplomatic channels, emphasizing Moscow’s commitment to regional stability. “We view the intensification of the situation with grave concern and demand that both countries demonstrate tolerance to prevent further provocations,” the spokesperson said, underscoring that border skirmishes pose a direct threat to Afghan-Pakistani ties and Central Asian security.
This comes amid a deadly spiral: Pakistan’s airstrikes on alleged TTP hideouts in Khost and Paktika on October 9-10, followed by Taliban retaliation across posts in Bajaur and North Waziristan, leading to border closures at Torkham and Chaman for a second day. Russia, seeking deeper influence in Afghanistan post-2021, pledged to collaborate with partners to curb conflict, echoing calls from China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iran for de-escalation.
As Pakistan’s army chief inspects frontlines and Afghan FM Amir Khan Muttaqi pauses operations at mediators’ behest, Moscow’s intervention highlights global stakes in averting a wider flare-up.
