The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said the government is continuing to engage with Russian authorities to secure the release of around two dozen Indian nationals who are reportedly still serving in the Russian military. The statement comes as the Supreme Court hears a petition filed by the families of Indian youths allegedly lured into military service in Russia through fraudulent recruitment schemes.
Addressing a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has consistently raised the issue with Moscow and remains committed to ensuring the safe return of its citizens.
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“We continue to pursue the release of around two dozen Indian nationals who reportedly joined and still remain with the Russian Army. Our efforts have led to the release of 139 Indian nationals so far,” Jaiswal said.
According to official estimates, more than 30 Indians have lost their lives while serving on the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In addition, over 15 Indian nationals are believed to be missing.
The Supreme Court is currently hearing a petition filed by the relatives of 26 Indians who travelled to Russia during 2024 and 2025 on tourist or student visas. The petition alleges that recruitment agents deceived them with promises of high-paying jobs, attractive bonuses and even Russian citizenship before coercing them into military service.
Many of those recruited were reportedly assured they would perform non-combat duties such as cooking or cleaning. However, after receiving basic military training, they were allegedly deployed to active combat zones in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
The MEA reiterated its advisory urging Indians to exercise extreme caution while accepting overseas employment opportunities. Jaiswal warned citizens against offers made by unscrupulous agents and agencies that could expose them to significant risks.
The government said it will continue to work with Russian authorities to facilitate the release and repatriation of the remaining Indian nationals while advising prospective job seekers to verify overseas employment opportunities through authorised channels before travelling abroad.
