I don't know why people are interpreting one article as substituting the US with Russia. It is just an opinion piece.
Although there is undeniable truth that the relations between the US and Pakistan is marred by distrust, vilification and hostility. This has a long history and everyone is aware of this.
Keeping this in mind, we cannot ignore that the Americans themselves are indulged in disconnecting and creating hostility by creating camps. Pakistan too has to look out for its interests. China and Russia are our natural allies. Our interests converge on many regional and international matters. There is no harm in Pakistan Russia approaching one another and improving relations. Besides, this relation isn't meant to rival other relations. It is only meant for security and economic cooperation. Anyone interpreting this relationship differently is insecure.
By the same token, can't we ask the same questions regarding the US India nexus? Is this relationship aimed at anyone? How are we to interpret this relationship?
Pakistan should never have been part of American warmongering during the Cold War. This is where it all went wrong. Yes, Pakistan should have a neutral stance is world affairs. We have learnt the hard way.