President, PM condemn attack on Putin's residence

President Asif Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday expressed concern over reports of an attack on the residence of Russia President Vladimir Putin, cautioning that such incidents risk undermining ongoing efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

On Monday, hopes for a breakthrough in Ukraine's war were dented after Russia accused Ukraine of attempting to strike Putin's residence in northern Russia, an allegation Kyiv dismissed as baseless and designed to derail peace talks.

At a critical moment, when talks to end the war are at a sensitive stage, actions that escalate tensions are extremely counterproductive, a statement from the Presidency's said.

President Zardari urged both sides to exercise the highest degree of restraint and to direct their actions towards the success of dialogue and diplomacy.

He emphasised that peace remains the only viable path forward and that restraint and responsibility are essential to prevent further deterioration of the situation.

Separately, the prime minister condemned the reported attack, calling it a grave threat to peace and security.

"Pakistan condemns the reported targeting of the residence of His Excellency Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation. Such a heinous act constitutes a grave threat to peace, security, and stability, particularly at a time when efforts aimed at peace are underway," the premier wrote on his X timeline.

The prime minister expressed solidarity with the Russian president and with the government and people of Russia.

"We reiterate our firm rejection of all forms of violence and acts intended to undermine security and threaten peace," he added.