Indians in Russian Army: India Seeks Early Release, Warns Citizens

New Delhi, October 28: India has stepped up its push for the early release of its citizens serving in the Russian Army, even as talks with Ukraine continue over an Indian national held in Ukrainian custody, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.

The ministry said that its discussions with the Ukrainian government on the detained citizen's return are ongoing, and consular visits have been made to ensure his welfare.

The warning against joining foreign armies has been a consistent message from the government. On September 30, the MEA advised Indian citizens to stay away from offers to join the Russian Army, cautioning that such recruitment could pose a serious threat to their lives.

The ministry noted that on several occasions over the past two years, Indian citizens were advised to be careful while seeking overseas employment and not to fall for job offers from unknown persons.

It also observed that several cases have emerged where some individuals voluntarily accepted offers to join the Russian Army in the hope of financial gain. Some believed they could later approach the Government of India to secure their discharge.

The MEA reiterated that joining the Russian Army is a dangerous path and that the government strongly discourages it. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that around 259 Indian nationals had been recruited, of whom 139 have been brought back, while 69 are still believed to be serving and remain the focus of ongoing talks with Russia.