In a private dinner hosted by President Vladimir Putin on Monday night, PM Modi raised the critical issue of Indian nationals serving in the Russian military. Following the discussions, Russia agreed to release all Indian citizens working in its army, according to unnamed sources cited by ANI.
On 22 February 2024, Mohammed Imran showed a photo of his brother, Mohammed Asfan, who was stranded in Russia near the war-torn Ukraine border, at their home in Hyderabad. Among the Indian nationals employed by Moscow for the Russian Army in Ukraine are an apple farmer, an airline caterer, and an out-of-work graduate.
Tragically, at least two Indian citizens have lost their lives in the conflict, with many others claiming they were deceived into joining the combat. During the dinner, Modi emphasised the need for the swift discharge of Indians from the Russian military and assistance in their safe return.
A top Indian official told Reuters last week that Modi’s priorities in Moscow included addressing India’s trade imbalance with Russia and securing the discharge of Indian citizens misled into fighting in Ukraine. PTI reported that India would raise the issue in the strongest terms. ‘We want the expeditious discharge of Indians fighting in the Ukrainian conflict from the Russian military,’ a source said.
Reports suggest up to 200 Indian nationals were recruited by the Russian military as support staff, though sources believe the number is closer to 100. Establishing contact with these individuals has been challenging due to frequent military unit movements and poor communication.
The external affairs ministry previously advised Indian citizens to exercise caution when seeking employment opportunities in Russia. Many Indians were duped by recruiting agents in Indian cities and Dubai, leading to deaths and injuries among those enlisted. Videos on social media have shown Indians seeking help to escape these positions.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently dismantled a human trafficking network across several states that lured young men with promises of high-paying jobs in Russia. A viral video showed men from Punjab and Haryana, dressed in army uniforms, pleading for help after being tricked into fighting in Ukraine.
As PM Modi and Putin prepare for talks amid global outrage over Russian strikes in Ukraine, Modi’s visit to Moscow aims to strengthen India-Russia relations while also fostering closer Western security ties. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, ‘The main thing is to create an atmosphere for meaningful interaction.’
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