Washington, Feb 28 (V7N) — US President Donald Trump has said that the United States will not intervene in the ongoing conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump said he maintains good relations with Pakistan’s leadership and expressed respect for the country’s prime minister and military leadership. “I can intervene, but you know I have a good relationship with Pakistan. Pakistan has a great prime minister and general. I really respect both of them. I think Pakistan is doing extraordinarily well,” he said.

Meanwhile, António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, voiced deep concern over the escalating violence and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric urged both sides to comply with international human rights law and ensure civilian protection.

The European Council also appealed to Islamabad and Kabul to return to dialogue, citing the worsening humanitarian situation.

According to available reports, nearly 297 Afghan forces have been killed in the ongoing operations. Pakistan claims that 89 army posts and 135 tanks and armored vehicles have been destroyed.

On the other hand, Afghan sources say 55 Pakistani soldiers were killed in Wednesday’s attacks, while 19 military posts and two bases were captured along with a large cache of weapons and ammunition.

The situation along the border remains tense as international actors continue to push for restraint and diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.

END/SMA/AJ