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New Delhi: The Government of India on Thursday issued a strict advisory warning its citizens against joining the Russian Army, following reports that some Indians in Moscow were being forced into combat roles in the ongoing Ukraine war.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the issue has been raised with Russian authorities in both Delhi and Moscow, urging that such practices be stopped and that affected Indian nationals be released.
“We have seen reports about Indian nationals having been recruited recently into the Russian army. The 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 MEA stated.
The advisory comes in response to a report that two Indian men currently in Ukraine’s Donetsk region alleged they were deceived with promises of construction jobs in Russia but were instead sent to the frontlines. The report further claimed that at least 13 more Indians were trapped in similar circumstances.
The affected men, who traveled to Russia in the past six months on student or visitor visas, told reporters from Selydove, a town captured by Russian forces in November 2024, that an agent had misled them into believing they would be employed in non-combat roles.
The MEA reaffirmed that it is in touch with the families of the trapped citizens and reiterated its appeal to all Indians:
“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 government emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation and working diplomatically to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.
