MEA raises concern over Indian nationals joining Russian forces amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. (Images: X)
New Delhi: India is continuing diplomatic efforts to bring back Indian nationals believed to be serving with the Russian military, with discussions underway with Moscow regarding 69 people, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the government believes approximately 259 Indian citizens were recruited into the Russian Army. Of these, 139 have been discharged following India's intervention and have returned home, while 69 are believed to remain associated with the Russian military.
Addressing the ministry's regular press briefing in New Delhi, Jaiswal said India was seeking further information from Russian authorities about the whereabouts of the remaining individuals and the process for securing their return. The government has reiterated its concern over Indian citizens joining foreign armed forces, particularly amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
According to MEA, diplomatic discussions with Moscow are focused on establishing the whereabouts of the 69 Indian nationals believed to remain with the Russian military and exploring ways to bring them back. The spokesperson said India had already secured the discharge and return of 139 citizens through government efforts. The latest figures highlight the continuing challenges faced by Indian authorities in addressing cases involving nationals recruited into the Russian armed forces.
During the briefing, Jaiswal was also asked whether the government maintained figures for Indian nationals who had acquired Russian citizenship. He clarified that MEA's available figures covered Indian citizens and did not include comprehensive data on people who had subsequently obtained Russian nationality.
For information about Russian citizens, including those who may previously have been Indian nationals, he suggested approaching the Russian Embassy or the Russian Foreign Ministry in Moscow.
Earlier this week, MEA again warned Indian nationals against accepting offers to join the Russian military, stressing that such recruitment could expose them to serious and potentially fatal risks. Jaiswal said reports of Indians continuing to join Russian forces remained a matter of deep concern despite repeated government advisories. The ministry has consistently urged citizens to avoid recruitment opportunities that could place their lives in danger, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The Indian government has repeatedly cautioned citizens against pursuing military recruitment opportunities in Russia. In its latest advisory for Indians travelling to the country, the MEA highlighted reports of Indian nationals being recruited despite earlier warnings. Authorities have also advised Indians seeking employment overseas to exercise caution and carefully verify job offers before accepting them. The ministry has warned against being misled by unverified agents or individuals promising lucrative opportunities abroad.
The issue remains a diplomatic concern for New Delhi as it works with Moscow to secure the release and return of Indian nationals. While 139 citizens have reportedly returned following their discharge, discussions over the 69 individuals believed to remain with the Russian military are continuing. MEA's latest statement reinforces India's position that its citizens should not be drawn into dangerous military recruitment arrangements overseas.
