Russia’s Foreign Ministry has urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint following a significant exchange of fire between the nuclear-capable nations, marking their most severe confrontation since 2019, when they neared the brink of war.

On Wednesday morning, India launched missile strikes against Pakistan, labeling the action as retaliation for a recent attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, primarily tourists, in Kashmir, which is administered by India. In response, Pakistan characterized the strikes as an act of war and initiated its own counteroffensive.

The Indian authorities asserted that their military targeted nine locations identified as “terrorist infrastructure” in Pakistan. However, Pakistan denied the allegations, claiming that none of the attacked sites were militant bases.

According to reports from Islamabad, at least 38 individuals have lost their lives in the Kashmir region administered by Pakistan and in the Punjab province. Meanwhile, India reported the death of 12 of its citizens amidst the heavy exchange of fire.

In a statement, Russia’s Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern regarding the escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan following the terrorist incident near Pahalgam.

The ministry called on both nations to show restraint in order to avoid a further escalation of the situation, advocating for the resolution of differences through “peaceful and diplomatic channels.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin reached out to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday to convey condolences over the loss of Indian lives in the recent attack in Kashmir.

Both leaders stressed the importance of a resolute fight against terrorism in all its manifestations, as reported by the Kremlin following their conversation.

The Kremlin has yet to provide immediate comments on the flare-up of hostilities that occurred early on Wednesday.