The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that 12 Indians have lost their lives while fighting for Russia in the ongoing Ukraine war, with 16 others still missing.
This tragedy comes amid an intensifying conflict between Russia and Ukraine, where foreign nationals have been recruited to join Russian forces.
Read more: Ukraine Uses Drone Footage To Train AI For War Decisions
According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, 126 Indian nationals have served in the Russian Army so far. Of these, 96 have returned to India after being discharged, while 18 remain in Russia’s service, with 16 of their whereabouts still unknown.
Jaiswal stated that the Russian authorities have listed the missing individuals as such, and efforts are underway for their early release and repatriation.
One of the confirmed dead is Binil Babu from Kerala, whose remains are being arranged for repatriation. Another injured Indian, Jain TK, is receiving medical treatment in Moscow and will return once he recovers.
The Ministry also conveyed its condolences to the families and confirmed that the embassy is assisting them and keeping communication open.
These incidents have raised concerns about the growing involvement of Indian nationals in foreign conflicts, prompting the government to call for the return of all Indians still enlisted with the Russian military.
