New Delhi, Sep.27,2025:The presence of 27 Indians in Russian Army ranks has emerged as a serious concern for New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Friday that efforts are underway to secure the release of these citizens, who were reportedly recruited into Russia’s military amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine-
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, during a press briefing, said, “We have recently learned that some more Indian citizens have joined the Russian Army. Families informed us, and we are actively engaging with the Russian government to bring them back at the earliest.”
Families Raise Alarm, Ministry Confirms Cases
According to officials, several families contacted the Indian government after discovering that their relatives had joined the Russian Army under unclear circumstances. Some accounts suggest that individuals were misled with promises of lucrative jobs, only to be forced into combat roles once they reached Russia.
The MEA confirmed that approximately 27 Indians are currently in service with the Russian Army, and negotiations are ongoing for their safe release.
Previous Warnings from the Indian Government
This is not the first time such an incident has come to light. Earlier this year, the Indian government had issued an advisory warning citizens against joining foreign militaries, particularly in active conflict zones like Russia and Ukraine.
Despite repeated warnings, reports suggest that several Indians, especially from economically weaker backgrounds, were lured with job offers and ended up on the battlefield.
How Did Indians End Up in the Russian Army
Recruitment of foreigners in the Russian Army is not new. Reports indicate that Russia, facing manpower shortages due to the prolonged war in Ukraine, has been hiring foreigners with promises of citizenship and financial incentives.
Several Indians were reportedly offered jobs in construction or support services but later found themselves drafted into active military duty.
Diplomatic Efforts to Secure Release
India has raised this matter multiple times with Russian authorities. According to MEA spokesperson Jaiswal, “The government is in touch with Moscow to ensure the safe return of all Indians. We are closely monitoring the situation and pressing for their early release.”
This follows earlier successful efforts, where India managed to bring back a group of Indians who were stuck in similar circumstances in Russia.
Risks Faced by Indians in the Russian Army
The biggest concern is the safety of Indians deployed in active war zones. Reports from Ukraine’s frontlines highlight the dangers faced by foreign recruits, many of whom are inadequately trained and placed in high-risk positions.
For families in India, every day is filled with uncertainty about the safety and well-being of their loved ones.
International Reactions and Comparisons
The issue of Indians in the Russian Army is not isolated. Citizens from several countries, including Nepal, Sri Lanka, and African nations, have reportedly been recruited by Russia.
Nepal recently confirmed casualties among its citizens fighting for Russia, while Sri Lanka is also negotiating the release of its nationals. India’s case adds more diplomatic pressure on Moscow.
Russia-India Relations at Stake
While India and Russia share historic ties, the issue of Indian citizens in the Russian Army adds a new layer of complexity. Analysts suggest that while it may not derail bilateral relations, it could impact public sentiment and India’s stance on foreign recruitment.
India has so far maintained a delicate balance in its approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, but the presence of 27 Indians in Russian Army service raises new diplomatic challenges.
What Families Are Demanding
Families of those trapped in Russia are demanding swift action. Many have appealed directly to the Prime Minister’s Office and the MEA, seeking urgent intervention.
Several parents have publicly spoken about being kept in the dark regarding their sons’ real situation until they received desperate phone calls from Russia.
Expert Views on Recruitment of Foreigners in Conflicts
Defense analysts highlight that the recruitment of foreigners during conflicts is a controversial practice. It not only puts individuals at grave risk but also creates diplomatic strains between nations.
Experts suggest that stronger awareness campaigns are needed in India to prevent citizens from falling prey to such recruitment traps.
Lessons from Past Cases
Earlier incidents involving Indians in conflict zones underline the need for vigilance. For example, several Indians stranded in war-hit Ukraine during the early days of the Russia-Ukraine war had to be rescued through Operation Ganga.
This current situation reinforces the importance of strict monitoring of recruitment agencies and job offers abroad.
The Road Ahead for Affected Indians
For the 27 Indians in Russian Army, the path forward depends heavily on diplomatic negotiations. India’s government is optimistic but has warned families that the process may take time, given the ongoing war situation.
Meanwhile, Indian missions abroad have been instructed to increase surveillance on dubious recruitment drives targeting Indians for foreign militaries.
The presence of 27 Indians in Russian Army service has sparked concern not only among families but also at the diplomatic level. While New Delhi continues to negotiate their release, the incident serves as a cautionary tale for citizens considering risky job offers abroad.
