By The South Asia Times

UNITED NATIONS -  Pakistan has urged Russia and Ukraine to de-escalate their ongoing conflict, respect international humanitarian law and resume meaningful dialogue, warning that further escalation would deepen civilian suffering and worsen global food and energy insecurity.

Addressing a United Nations Security Council meeting on Ukraine on Monday, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Syed Haider Shah, said Islamabad was deeply concerned about the continued escalation in fighting and its impact on civilians and civilian infrastructure.

He expressed particular alarm over the rising number of civilian casualties and attacks on energy facilities, transportation networks and commercial vessels.

"All efforts must, therefore, be made to de-escalate the situation, and protect human lives and livelihoods of all peoples caught in this unfortunate conflict," Shah told the council.

He called on both Russia and Ukraine to refrain from expanding the conflict, fulfil their obligations under international law and international humanitarian law, and recommit to dialogue to bring the war to an early end.

The Pakistani envoy also warned that the consequences of the prolonged conflict extended far beyond the region, affecting global food and energy security, particularly in developing countries.

Referring to recent developments in Oleshky, Shah said the humanitarian situation demonstrated that meaningful progress could only be achieved through dialogue and cooperation.

He commended Russia and Ukraine for working together to avert a potential humanitarian disaster in the area and facilitate the safe evacuation of stranded civilians under a limited ceasefire arrangement.

Shah particularly appreciated the initiative and personal commitment of US First Lady Melania Trump in bringing the two sides together and securing the limited ceasefire agreement to allow the evacuation.

He also welcomed US mediation efforts and leadership aimed at ending the conflict, while taking note of reports of working-level meetings between Russian and Ukrainian representatives in Abu Dhabi.

"The pursuit of military solution only risks further escalation and prolong the suffering of those affected by this conflict," he said, urging both sides to engage in meaningful negotiations towards a comprehensive and lasting peace.

Shah said an immediate and robust ceasefire could help the parties bridge their differences and move towards a peaceful settlement, describing it as the only viable and responsible option.

He reaffirmed Pakistan's support for all diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting resolution that addresses the legitimate security concerns of all parties in accordance with the UN Charter, international law and relevant multilateral agreements.