ISLAMABAD: Russian Ambassador Albert P Khorev on Thursday launched Ukraine War: Beyond the Headlines, authored by Munir Ahmed, saying the book examined the historical roots and geopolitical consequences of the conflict.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Albert P Khorev described the publication as a contribution to the study of European security and said it drew on official documents, United Nations reports and other publicly available sources.

The book covered Nato’s eastward expansion, the 2014 political upheaval in Ukraine, the Minsk agreements, European security, energy markets and global food supplies, according to the ambassador.

Mr Khorev said Russia viewed Nato expansion and the disregard for its security concerns as key factors behind the conflict. He also criticised Western military support for Ukraine, arguing that it had prolonged the fighting. On food security, the ambassador highlighted Russia’s role as a major exporter of wheat, barley, energy and fertilisers.

He said sanctions and disruptions to Black Sea shipping posed challenges to international food supplies. He appreciated Pakistan’s approach to the conflict, describing it as balanced and supportive of dialogue. He said Moscow remained willing to pursue a diplomatic settlement that addressed the underlying causes of the crisis and the security concerns of all parties.

The Russian envoy expressed hope that the book would encourage informed debate and a broader understanding of the conflict. In his review of the book, former Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed remarked that the book countered European and American propaganda and the demonising of Russia. He alleged that war-mongering US media was unfairly critical of President Putin’s visit to Alaska for peace talks.

In his remarks, Ambassador Masood Khan lamented the humanitarian and economic costs of the Russia-Ukraine war. Other speakers included retired Gen Asad Durrani.

Published in Dawn, October 30th, 2026