Silverio Omari
Russia has committed to an early release of all Indian citizens serving in its military, announced India’s foreign ministry. The pledge followed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s discussions with President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Moscow.
According to Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, PM Modi strongly raised the issue of Indians who were misled into military service in Russia under false promises of non-combat roles, only to be forced into active combat in Ukraine. The Russian side assured an expedited discharge for these individuals.
Currently, there are approximately 35-50 Indians in the Russian forces, with 10 already repatriated. Efforts are underway to bring back the rest, many of whom were deceived by agents promising jobs in the Russian army, despite coming from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
The issue, termed a “matter of deep concern” by India’s foreign ministry, has seen ongoing efforts to secure the return of these individuals. Earlier this year, India dismantled a network of agents involved in recruiting Indians for combat roles in Russia.
During Modi’s visit, both nations also outlined areas for enhanced cooperation, including nuclear energy and medicine, aiming to elevate bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030.
Dj Vnyash
