India on Thursday issued a stern advisory cautioning its citizens against joining the Russian Army, following reports that several Indians who had travelled to Moscow were being pushed into combat roles in the Ukraine war.
"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," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
The Ministry confirmed that the issue has been raised with Russian authorities in both Delhi and Moscow, stressing 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 MEA added.
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The advisory came after a report in a leading newspaper claimed that two Indian men, currently in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, had been misled into joining the Russian frontline. Speaking over the phone from Selydove, a town captured by Russia in November 2024, the men alleged they were promised construction jobs but were instead deployed in combat.
According to the report, at least 13 more Indians are trapped in similar conditions. The two men had travelled to Russia in the past six months on student or visitor visas. They alleged that an agent, who promised them employment in the construction sector, had deceived them and sent them directly to the battlefield.
Reiterating its caution, the MEA urged Indians to avoid such offers at all costs.
“We once again strongly urge all Indian nationals to stay away from any offers to join the Russian army as this is a course fraught with danger,” the Ministry stated.
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