Two Dozen Indians Still in Russian Army, Release Efforts Underway: Government

India on Friday said that around two dozen Indian nationals were still serving in the Russian Army, with efforts continuing to secure their release. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi has been repeatedly asking Russia to release all Indians serving as support staff, such as cooks and helpers, with Russian military units.

"We have been following up with the Russian side for the release of the remaining Indian nationals with the Russian army. Our efforts have led to the release of 139 Indian nationals so far," Jaiswal said at his regular media briefing. He added, "We continue to pursue the release of around two dozen Indian nationals who reportedly joined and still remain with the Russian army."

Jaiswal also issued a caution against unscrupulous job offers. "We once again caution our people against job offers that are fraught with risks and made by unscrupulous individuals or agencies," he said. Over 30 Indians have died so far while serving with the Russian military on the frontlines of the conflict in Ukraine.

The remarks came amid growing concerns over the safety of Indian nationals in the conflict zone. The government has been pressing Moscow to expedite the discharge of those who were recruited, many of whom were allegedly misled by recruitment agents promising civilian jobs in Russia.

The Russia-Ukraine war, now in its third year, has resulted in heavy casualties on both sides. Reports of foreign nationals, including Indians, being recruited into the Russian military have surfaced since the early months of the conflict. India has consistently called for a peaceful resolution through diplomacy and dialogue.

In a related development, the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Centre to appoint a nodal officer in the external affairs ministry to coordinate with the families of those who have died, gone missing, or suffered injuries while fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana was hearing a plea pertaining to Indian nationals recruited into the Russian military after being allegedly duped by travel agents.

The plea, filed by affected families, seeks the return of mortal remains, compensation, and a coordinated mechanism for addressing grievances. The court's directive is aimed at ensuring that families receive timely information and assistance.

The issue of Indian nationals serving in the Russian military came to light after several families reported that their kin had been promised jobs in Russia by agents, only to be deployed on the war front. The Indian government has repeatedly advised citizens to exercise caution and verify any overseas job offers to avoid falling victim to fraudulent recruitment.

According to Jaiswal, Indian missions in Russia have been in close touch with the affected families and are providing all possible assistance. The government remains committed to securing the release and safe return of all Indian nationals.

The government's response underscores the complex challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid any offers that could put them in harm's way. The MEA has also advised people to verify the credentials of recruitment agencies.