Putin expresses 'full support' to India in fight against terror

India and Pakistan should exercise maximum restraint and avoid a military confrontation that can "easily spin out of control", UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday against the backdrop of tensions between the South Asian neighbors over the Pahalgam terror attack.

- Rezaul H Laskar

NEW DELHI:

Guterres offered to mediate between the Indian and Pakistani governments and said the United Nations will support any initiative that promotes de-escalation and diplomacy. He made the remarks at a media stakeout in New York hours ahead of consultations behind closed doors at the UN Security Council on the situation between India and Pakistan.

Describing tensions between India and Pakistan as at their "highest in years", Guterres said: "It is essential, especially at this critical hour, to avoid a military confrontation that could easily spin out of control. Now is the time for maximum restraint and stepping back from the brink."

He added, "Make no mistake, the military solution is no solution. And I offer my good offices to both governments in the service of peace. The UN stands ready to support any initiative that promotes de-escalation, diplomacy and a renewed commitment to peace."

Guterres reiterated his condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack of April 22 that killed 26 people, mostly tourists, and said: "Targeting civilians is unacceptable and those responsible must be brought to justice through credible, lawful means."