Russia’s invasion of Ukraine can only be described as an unjustifiable and extreme action that will have serious lasting effects on both countries for years to come. With hundreds of lives having already been lost on both sides, in all likelihood, the conflict will become bloodier with each passing day. Only time will tell how and when this war ends and the extent of damage that is done as a result but a majority of the world has already outrightly condemned Vladimir Putin’s actions, with the US and some European countries imposing heavy sanctions. Within Russia, widespread anti-war protests have been held and the state has attempted to quell this uprising through brute force and has intensified its censorship efforts, pressurizing tech giants to set up legal entities in the Russia as part of a new law.
In this backdrop, Pakistan’s decision to go ahead with a preplanned bilateral visit to Moscow has made Prime Minister Imran Khan the only leader of a democratic nation so far to have met Putin in Russia after the start of the conflict. The visit could perhaps be categorized as ‘bad timing’ but that would be an inexplicable excuse to try and sell to the US and European countries who have expressed their displeasure over the meeting. However, maintaining a good relationship with Russia is also important for Pakistan from a geopolitical and economic standpoint. Pakistan, along with China and Russia’s help is attempting to resolve the Afghan crisis. A net importer of energy, Pakistan has to keep Russia engaged as the latter is the second largest gas producing country in the world. It seems the Foreign Office has not approached the matter with the sensitivity and carefully thought out strategy that it deserves. The optics of the entire visit being held on the eve of Russia advancing into Ukraine despite international pressure and warnings will have diplomatic consequences for Islamabad.
It is necessary now that Pakistan takes a more neutral and clear position on Ukraine, preferably one where it also calls for Russian troops to exit Ukraine. Short of this, Pakistan will not be seen on the right side history when the conflict eventually ends.
