MOSCOW — Russia has expressed concern over escalating violence along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border, calling on both countries to avoid further military confrontation and resolve their differences through dialogue.

In a statement issued on March 4, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the Afghanistan–Pakistan border conflict has seen increased fighting in recent days, including reports of armed clashes involving aircraft and heavy weapons across areas inhabited by Pashtun tribes.

Zakharova said the violence has resulted in casualties on both sides and has also affected civilians living near the border.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the ongoing hostilities are causing humanitarian concerns, particularly for vulnerable communities and Afghan refugees who recently returned from neighboring Pakistan and Iran.

She urged both Kabul and Islamabad to exercise restraint and address their differences through diplomatic channels based on mutual respect.

Officials in Moscow said continued dialogue between the two countries would be essential to prevent further escalation and reduce the impact of the conflict on civilians in the border region.