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India has cautioned its citizens to "exercise caution" and "stay away from this conflict" amid reports of some Indians allegedly being "forced" to fight in Russia's war against Ukraine.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed concerns, stating that the Indian Embassy has engaged with Russian authorities to facilitate the early discharge of Indian nationals working in support roles for the Russian army. Jaiswal urged all Indian nationals to steer clear of the conflict.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi had earlier appealed to Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to assist three Indians purportedly coerced into joining the Russian army. According to reports, these individuals were misled by an agent and sent to Russia under the guise of working as "Army security helpers."

The issue emerged after the family of one victim from Hyderabad sought Owaisi's intervention. Owaisi urged Jaishankar to take action, expressing concerns for the safety of the individuals and the distress of their families.

If confirmed, this would mark the first instance of Indians participating in the conflict alongside the Russian military, either voluntarily or under coercion.

As the war in Ukraine progresses into its third year, Ukrainian forces face challenges, including ammunition shortages and strategic retreats in certain areas. The conflict has largely devolved into intense artillery exchanges, with both sides deploying thousands of shells daily.

Recent developments include the symbolic capture of the Ukrainian city of Avdiivka and the US Congress withholding essential military aid to Kyiv. While Ukraine had surpassed Russia in shell firing for much of 2023, Moscow's increased production and procurement from North Korea and Iran have shifted the dynamics.

Furthermore, the United States is poised to announce new sanctions on Moscow in response to the recent death of Putin critic Navalny in a Russian prison.

India's advisory underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential risks faced by individuals inadvertently embroiled in the conflict.