How Many Indians Have Joined the Russian Army? 202 Recruited, 26 Dead, 50 Awaiting Discharge
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Synopsis
The recruitment of 202 Indians into the Russian Army has raised serious concerns, with 26 reported deaths and seven individuals missing. This situation has prompted the Indian government to intensify diplomatic efforts for the safe return of its nationals. What are the implications of this involvement in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict?
Key Takeaways
- 202 Indian nationals have been recruited into the Russian Army.
- 26 Indians have died, with seven reported missing.
- The Indian government is making diplomatic efforts for repatriation.
- 119 Indians have already been discharged.
- The Indian Embassy is providing necessary support to families.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) A total of 202 Indian citizens have been enlisted in the Russian military since 2022, leading to 26 fatalities and reports of seven individuals missing, as disclosed by the Centre during a session in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.
This information was provided in response to inquiries from Trinamool Congress MP Saket Gokhale and Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala regarding the repatriation of Indians allegedly coerced or unlawfully recruited to participate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh stated that diligent diplomatic initiatives from India have facilitated the early discharge of 119 Indian nationals, while 50 individuals are still pending release from the Russian Army.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in ongoing discussions with Russian officials to guarantee the safety and prompt return of these individuals, he noted.
The government confirmed that 26 Indians have died in the ongoing conflict, with seven more reported missing as per the data provided by the Russian authorities.
Out of the deceased, the remains of 10 Indian nationals have been sent back to India, while two were cremated locally in Russia with the support of the Indian Mission.
“The Ministry has facilitated the repatriation of the remains of 10 deceased Indian citizens to India, in addition to local cremation for two others,” stated the MoS.
“DNA samples from family members of 18 Indians who are either deceased or missing have been submitted to Russian authorities to aid in identifying some of the deceased,” he added.
The Indian Embassy in Russia has played a pivotal role in aiding discharged nationals with travel documentation, flight tickets, and logistical assistance for their return.
They have also maintained close coordination with families in India throughout the evacuation and repatriation processes, ensuring that decisions regarding cremation or transportation are made with consent.
The government emphasized that this matter has been discussed at various diplomatic levels, including interactions among leaders and senior officials from both nations, assuring Parliament that efforts will persist until all remaining Indians are safely discharged and returned home.
Point of View
This situation underscores the critical responsibility of the government to safeguard its citizens abroad. The involvement of Indian nationals in international conflicts raises significant ethical and diplomatic concerns that need to be addressed comprehensively.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the recruitment of Indians in the Russian Army?
The recruitment appears to be linked to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with allegations of coercion or illegal enlistment.
How many Indians have died in the conflict?
26 Indians have been confirmed dead as per information from Russian authorities.
What is the Indian government's response?
The Indian government is actively engaging with Russian officials to ensure the safety and early repatriation of its nationals.
How many Indians are still awaiting discharge?
Currently, 50 individuals are still awaiting their release from the Russian Army.
What support is provided to the families?
The Indian Embassy is assisting families with travel documents and coordinating the repatriation of remains.
