Can Russia broker peace between Afghanistan and Pakistan on TTP?

ISLAMABAD, 17 Nov 2025: Already facing growing international isolation and sanctions, can Russia play a role in negotiating peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan?

Russia, already embroiled in Ukrain war, has offered to mediate between Pakistan and Afghanistan to ease rising tensions.

Speaking at a press conference in the Kremlin, a spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, emphasised that stability in the region is Russia’s top priority.

In a geopolitical landscape fraught with tension, Russia is stepping into the complex dynamics between Afghanistan and Pakistan, particularly concerning the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) by offering to facilitating the two sides. Many see the Russian mediation offer a glimmer of hope because of its closeness to the Afghan Taliban.

Maria Zakharova (x.com)

Russia is the only country which recognizes Afghan Taliban, but with Islamabad and Kabul sticking to their hard stances, some critics believe chances of success are bleak.

Moscow’s interest in facilitating dialogue between Afghanistan and Pakistan stems from its desire to stabilize the region and curb the spread of extremism that could spill over its borders. It is in Taliban's good books and this can help it get some concession.

The Kremlin has previously expressed concerns about the rise of terrorist groups in Central Asia, which could threaten its national security. Therefore, a peaceful resolution to the TTP issue is not only vital for Pakistan and Afghanistan but also crucial for Russia's strategic interests.

Following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, the power vacuum has allowed various groups, including the TTP, to gain momentum. 

The TTP, a militant organization that seeks to impose its interpretation of Sharia law in Pakistan, has been responsible for numerous attacks, creating a volatile security situation in the region. With Afghanistan under Taliban control, the group has found safe havens and support, complicating the already strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul.

Dr. Elena Ivanova, a leading expert on South Asian geopolitics at the Moscow Institute of International Relations, stated, "Russia's role as a mediator is significant. 

It has the potential to bring both sides to the table, fostering dialogue that could lead to a comprehensive peace agreement. The TTP's activities have regional implications, and Russia understands that lasting peace in Afghanistan and Pakistan is essential for regional stability."

The proposed peace summit aims to create a framework for dialogue that includes not only military de-escalation but also socio-economic initiatives to address the grievances of the affected populations. Ensuring that local communities feel heard and supported is crucial in undermining the TTP's narrative and recruitment strategies.

Pakistan's government has shown a cautious willingness to engage, albeit with reservations about the Taliban's commitment to curbing TTP activities. Meanwhile, the Afghan authorities are also keen to demonstrate their capability in managing internal security issues to gain international legitimacy and support.

This comes after second round of talks between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban regime in Istanbul ended without any breakthrough, and the Pakistani delegation returned home. 

However, skepticism remains regarding the feasibility of such negotiations. Many analysts point out the deep-seated mistrust between Islamabad and Kabul, exacerbated by historical grievances and ongoing border disputes. The TTP's complex ties to both the Afghan Taliban and various tribal factions in Pakistan further complicate the peace process.

As Russia moves forward with its mediation efforts, the international community watches closely. The stakes are high, and the outcome of these negotiations could reshape the security landscape in South Asia. A successful agreement would not only enhance regional cooperation but also mark a significant step towards achieving long-term peace and stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Meanwhile, there are no dates or information yet about Turkey’s continued bid to engage with Pakistan. It recently said it will send a delegation to Pakistan, but no dates have been shared.