In the wake of heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, particularly following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, there have been diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. Pakistan's ambassador in Moscow has sought Russia's help in de-escalating the crisis with India. This appeal comes amid a sharp deterioration in India-Pakistan ties after the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, most of them tourists.

Russia has historically played a role in mediating between India and Pakistan, and Ambassador Mohammad Khalid Jamali referenced the Tashkent Declaration as an example of successful Russian intervention. He noted that Russia maintains a privileged strategic partnership with India while also having very good relations with Pakistan, positioning it as a credible interlocutor.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, urging both sides to de-escalate in line with established bilateral frameworks. Lavrov referred to the 1972 Simla Accord and the 1999 Lahore Declaration as the basis for peaceful resolution of disputes. He also expressed Russia's readiness to assist in facilitating a political settlement between India and Pakistan.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to convey his condolences regarding the Pahalgam attack. Putin "strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam, India" and "expressed full support to India in the fight against terrorism". He emphasized that the perpetrators of the heinous attack and their supporters must be brought to justice.

These diplomatic efforts occur against a backdrop of increased tensions and diplomatic measures taken by India, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and trade and visa restrictions. Pakistan has also unveiled counter-measures, including closing its airspace to Indian airliners and suspending all trade with India.

Despite the strained relations, Russia has emphasized that its strategic relationship with both India and Pakistan is not subject to external influence and continues to develop dynamically in all areas. Russia has reiterated that the Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration should remain the framework for any future dialogue between the two neighbors.