Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Postpones Russia Visit Amid Tensions

On March 1, 2026, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif postponed his planned visit to Russia, originally scheduled for March 3-5, due to escalating regional tensions and domestic security concerns. The decision was confirmed by the Prime Minister's Office, which stated, "In view of the current regional and internal situation, the Prime Minister has decided to postpone his visit to Russia after consultations." This postponement comes in the wake of significant unrest following the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israel airstrikes, which has led to protests in Pakistan and heightened security concerns along its borders, particularly with Afghanistan. The meeting that led to this decision included high-ranking officials such as Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, who reviewed the security situation and discussed measures for the evacuation of Pakistani nationals from Iran, facilitated through Azerbaijan.