The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that it has taken up the issue of Indians joining Russia’s war against Ukraine, with Russian authorities in Moscow and Delhi. The ministry also urged the Indian nationals
to stay away from offers to join the Russian Army.
“We have seen reports about Indian nationals having been recruited recently into the Russian army. Government has on several occasions over the past one year underlined the risks and dangers inherent in this course of action and cautioned Indian citizens accordingly,” MEA spokesperson said.
“We have also taken up the matter with Russian authorities, both in Delhi and Moscow, asking that this practice be ended and that our nationals be released. We are also in touch with the families of the affected Indian citizens,” the statement added.
The ministry further urged all Indian nationals to stay away from any offers to join the Russian army as this is a course fraught with danger.
The response comes after two Indian men, currently in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, reportedly claimed they had been lured to Russia on the pretext of construction jobs but were instead deployed to the frontline.
According to reports, the two recruits had traveled to Russia in the last six months on student or visitor visas. They alleged that an agent who promised them work in the construction sector sent them to the battlefield instead.
