India: After the news reports of some Indian nationals working as support staff to the Russian Army in the conflict zone came into existence, India has requested its counterpart Russia for the swift repatriation of its citizens, who are reportedly employed forcibly in support roles for the Russian Army within the conflict zone of Ukraine-Russia war.
External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal issued a statement, affirming the government’s awareness of Indian nationals serving in support capacities with the Russian military.
“We have established communication with the Indian Embassy in Moscow and remain in constant dialogue with Russian authorities to secure their early discharge,” said Randhir Jaiswal.
Urging caution, Jaiswal emphasized the importance of Indian nationals avoiding involvement in the ongoing conflict. “We advise all Indian citizens to exercise vigilance and refrain from participating in this conflict,” he added.
Reports indicate that several Indian nationals are being forced for logistical support to the Russian Military, with some being coerced into frontline combat roles along the Russia-Ukraine border. Among those affected are three civilians from Kalaburagi district in Karnataka, who are stranded in areas including Mariupol and Donetsk.
These individuals were reportedly deceived into employment by Wagner, a private Russian military group.
The plight of these individuals came to light when they released a video appealing for assistance from the Indian Government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In the video, they describe being victims of fraudulent job placement and implore authorities to intervene. Syed Illiyas Hussain, the father of one victim, has appealed to the Central Government and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) to facilitate the safe return of his son to India.
