Should Indians Avoid Joining the Russian Army?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Government Advisory: Strong warning against joining the Russian Army.
- Risk of Coercion: Reports of Indians being misled into combat roles.
- Communication: MEA is in touch with affected families.
- Cease Recruitment: Urging Russian authorities to stop these practices.
- Safety First: Citizens advised to avoid such offers.
New Delhi, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Indian government has issued a strong warning to its citizens, advising them against joining the Russian Army. This advisory comes in light of reports indicating that several Indians who traveled to Moscow are being coerced into combat roles in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), "We have observed reports regarding the recent recruitment of Indian nationals into the Russian army. The government has repeatedly highlighted the risks and dangers associated with such actions and has cautioned Indian citizens accordingly."
The Ministry has also confirmed that it has raised this matter with Russian officials in both New Delhi and Moscow, emphasizing that "this practice must cease and our nationals should be released immediately."
Furthermore, the Ministry stated, "We are maintaining communication with the families of the affected Indian citizens." This advisory follows an article from a prominent newspaper, which revealed that two Indian men currently located in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine claimed they were misled into believing they would be given construction jobs in Russia, only to find themselves deployed on the front lines.
In a phone interview from Selydove, a town captured by Russia in November 2024, these individuals reported that at least 13 more Indians are believed to be in similar predicaments.
The report indicated that both men had entered Russia within the last six months on student or visitor visas. They alleged that an agent who promised them jobs in construction deceived them and sent them straight to the battlefield.
Reiterating its warning, the MEA urged Indian citizens to avoid such offers at all costs, stating, "We strongly advise all Indian nationals to refrain from any offers to join the Russian army, as this path is fraught with peril."