At least 16 Indian nationals deployed by the Russian Army to fight in Ukraine are missing, while 12 have been killed so far, the Ministry of External Affairs informed on Friday.
This development came after the death of an Indian national from Kerala recruited by the Russian military while another sustained injuries during Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Following this, India strongly raised the matter with Moscow and reiterated its demand for the early discharge of all Indians from the Russian Army.“As of today, there have been 126 cases (of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army). Of these 126 cases, 96 people have returned to India and have been discharged from the Russian Armed Forces. 18 Indian nationals in the Russian Army remain and out of them the whereabouts of 16 individuals are not known,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a briefing on Friday.
Jaiswal said Russia has categorised the 16 Indian nationals as “missing”, adding that India is seeking early release and repatriation of those who remain. At least 12 Indian nationals have been killed fighting for the Russian Army in Ukraine.
The Ministry also extended its condolences to death of the Kerala man Binil Babu, who was killed during the Ukraine conflict and said the Indian embassy is in touch with Russian authorities for the repatriation of his mortal remains. Another Indian national Jain T K is receiving treatment in Moscow and is expected to return to India once his treatment is completed.
Indian Nationals Recruited By Russian Army
- 126 Indians recruited by the Russian Army.
- 96 Indians have returned
- 12 Indians killed fighting for the Russian Army
- 18 Indians still serving in Russia
- 16 Indians categorised as ‘missing’ by Russia
The External Affairs Ministry on Tuesday said the embassy in Moscow is in touch with the families of the two Indians and all possible assistance is being extended. “We have learnt of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala, who had apparently been recruited to serve in the Russian Army,” Jaiswal said.
