India has demanded the release of all Indian nationals serving in the Russian military after another citizen’s death in Ukraine, increasing the death toll to ten. The government is working to ensure the release of individuals who had been misled into enlistment, with ongoing discussions with Russian officials and efforts to repatriate the deceased and injured.

On Tuesday, India formally urged Russia to release all Indian nationals currently serving in its military, following the unfortunate death of another Indian citizen amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The External Affairs Ministry confirmed that the latest casualty was an Indian from Kerala, marking the total number of Indian fatalities in Ukraine’s war with Russia at ten. While the specific circumstances surrounding the individual’s death remain unclear, media reports suggest he was actively engaged in combat.

The Indian government has continuously advocated for the release of its citizens who have been employed as support staff within the Russian military framework, including cooks and assistants. This concern has grown more prominent after the deaths of several citizens in the conflict, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the issue directly with President Vladimir Putin during previous discussions.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed condolences for the deceased, Binil Babu, aged 31, and noted that another Indian national from Kerala, also recruited for military service, had suffered injuries and is recuperating in a hospital in Moscow. Jaiswal emphasized that the issue was urgently presented to Russian officials in both Moscow and New Delhi, underscoring India’s demand for the expedited repatriation of remaining Indian nationals still serving with the Russian forces.

The Ministry confirmed its efforts to facilitate the swift return of Babu’s remains to India, and also sought assistance for the injured individual’s repatriation. Furthermore, there was an acknowledgment of various Indian nationals, previously recruited by the Russian military, with prior assessments indicating around 85 individuals had been discharged, while another 20 are still in service.

A notable challenge to the release process stemmed from Russia’s defense ministry not formally terminating their military contracts. The recruitment of Indians into the Russian armed forces was reportedly halted in April 2024, while assurances were given that those who enlisted voluntarily would be allowed to depart promptly. Indian officials have contended, however, that numerous individuals were misled into enlistment by unscrupulous recruitment agents, prompting law enforcement to open investigations against several perpetrators involved in the recruiting process.

The issue of Indian nationals serving in the Russian military has gained widespread attention following reports of their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Over recent months, concerns have escalated due to the reported deaths of several Indians on the frontlines, prompting the Indian government to take decisive action. Authorities maintain that many of those recruited were misled by fraudulent agents, leading to calls for their return and the need to address recruitment practices and contractual obligations imposed by Russia. The situation has compelled high-level diplomatic engagements between India and Russia, focusing on the safety and rights of Indian citizens.

In conclusion, the Indian government has urgently called for the release of its nationals serving in the Russian military following the death of an Indian citizen in Ukraine, which has heightened concerns about the safety and well-being of those citizens. The Ministry of External Affairs continues to engage with Russian authorities to secure their release while addressing the broader implications of recruitment practices. This situation underscores the need for awareness and protection for Indian individuals who may be at risk due to deceptive recruitment efforts.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com

Related posts:

Russia Strengthens Influence in West Africa by Deploying Experts to Equatorial Guinea Putin Prepares for First Visit to India Since Ukraine War Europe’s Resolve is Crucial as Russia Faces War-Related Challenges Central African Republic Commemorates Wagner Founder with Statue, Strengthening Ties to Russia