India on Thursday urged Russia to immediately stop recruiting Indian nationals into its armed forces and demanded the release of all Indians currently serving in non-combat roles such as support staff within the Russian military.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a stern advisory following fresh reports of Indian nationals being inducted by Russian military units.
“We have seen reports about Indian nationals recently recruited into the Russian army,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
“The government has on several occasions over the past year underlined the risks and dangers inherent in this course of action and cautioned Indian citizens accordingly.”
Jaiswal confirmed that India has raised the issue with Russian authorities both in New Delhi and Moscow.
“We have asked that this practice be ended and that our nationals be released. We are also in touch with the families of the affected Indian citizens,” he added.
India reiterated its warning to citizens, advising them not to fall prey to offers of employment in the Russian military, highlighting the severe risks involved. “This is a course fraught with danger,” the MEA spokesperson said.