12 Indians killed, 16 missing while fighting for Russian Army in Ukraine
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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that 12 Indian nationals, out of 126 misled into joining the Russian Army, have died in combat during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
An additional 16 individuals are reported missing, while efforts are underway to secure the release and return of the remaining Indian citizens.
“We are in constant contact with Russian authorities to facilitate the release and repatriation of all Indian nationals trapped in Russia and involved in the conflict,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
Out of the 126 cases reported, 96 Indians have been discharged and returned home. However, 18 individuals remain active in combat, with 16 classified as “missing” by Russian authorities. The death toll of Indian nationals has reached 12, with the latest fatality being a man from Kerala.
The issue of Indians fighting in the war was previously addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In meetings held in July 2023 and again at the 16th BRICS Summit in October, PM Modi emphasised the need for the early discharge of Indians coerced into the Russian Army. President Putin assured cooperation, committing to the release of any Indians who had been misled into enlisting.
Investigations revealed that a human trafficking network spanning from New Delhi to Tamil Nadu used social media and local agents to lure individuals to Russia. Promising lucrative jobs or admissions to questionable private universities, the network deceived victims into traveling to Russia. Upon arrival, their passports were confiscated, and they were trained in combat roles before being deployed to the frontlines.
Authorities in India have arrested at least four individuals linked to the racket. A viral video from early 2024 showcased men from Punjab and Haryana, dressed in military uniforms, claiming they were tricked into fighting and pleading for assistance.
The Indian government has taken a strong stance on the matter. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar condemned the exploitation of Indian nationals, calling it “unacceptable” and promising “tough legal action” against agents involved in the scam. “No Indian should be taken to a conflict zone or forced to work for an army,” he stated, reiterating New Delhi’s commitment to securing the safe return of all affected citizens.
India continues to engage with Russian authorities to address the crisis. Meanwhile, the government has pledged to crack down on the trafficking networks responsible for luring and exploiting Indian nationals.