Overview
- The Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday issued a fresh advisory warning Indian nationals that joining the Russian armed forces is a dangerous path and is strongly discouraged.
- Government figures cited by senior officials put about 227 Indians recruited to date, with roughly 139 discharged, 51 killed, and about two dozen still reported to be in service.
- The MEA said many people were lured by short-term monetary offers and promises of Russian citizenship, and some have voluntarily renounced Indian citizenship before enlisting, complicating consular protection.
- New Delhi warned that recruitment is occurring through non-public channels, including voluntary groups and unregistered agents, and advised Indians to accept only offers vetted by the MEA.
- The government says it has repeatedly raised the issue at high levels with Moscow and is actively pressing Russian authorities to ensure early discharge, repatriation and the safety of affected Indian nationals.