At least 16 Indian nationals deployed by the Russian Army to fight in Ukraine are currently missing, while 12 have lost their lives, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The issue came to light after the death of an Indian national from Kerala during the conflict and injuries sustained by another.
India Raises Concerns Over Missing and Deceased Nationals in Ukraine
The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, provided detailed updates on the situation during a press briefing.
“As of today, there have been 126 cases (of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army). Of these, 96 people have returned to India and have been discharged from the Russian Armed Forces. Eighteen Indian nationals remain, and of them, the whereabouts of 16 individuals are not known,” said Jaiswal.
Russia has categorized these 16 individuals as “missing.” India is actively seeking their early release and repatriation.
Deaths and Injuries of Indian Nationals in Ukraine
Among the deceased is 32-year-old Binil Babu from Kerala, whose death during the Ukraine conflict was confirmed. His mortal remains are being repatriated with assistance from the Indian Embassy in Moscow. Another Indian national, Jain T.K., who sustained injuries, is currently undergoing treatment in Moscow and is expected to return to India after recovery.
India has extended its condolences to Binil’s family and is in constant touch with Russian authorities to assist the families of affected individuals.
Breakdown of Indians in Russian Army Fightig Against Ukraine
- 126 Indians recruited by the Russian Army
- 96 have returned to India
- 12 killed in action
- 18 still serving in Russia
- 16 categorized as ‘missing’
Recruitment and Alleged Trafficking of Indian Nationals
Many of the Indian nationals, including Binil and Jain, were reportedly duped by agents promising lucrative jobs or educational opportunities in Russia. Both men, ITI mechanical diploma holders, had traveled to Russia on April 4, hoping to work as electricians and plumbers.
Upon arrival, their passports were confiscated, and they were allegedly forced into the Russian Military Support Service.
This case is part of a larger pattern where young Indian men have reportedly been lured into fighting for Russian forces with the promise of money and Russian citizenship. In May last year, Indian authorities arrested four individuals suspected of running a human trafficking network responsible for misleading these recruits.
India’s Diplomatic Efforts
The Indian government has been pressing Russia for the early discharge of all Indian nationals from military service. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue strongly with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Moscow in July last year.
“The prime minister strongly raised the issue of early discharge of Indian nationals who have been misled into the service of the Russian Army,” the MEA stated.
India has also called for a verified stop to any further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army, emphasizing that such actions are not in line with the two nations’ partnership.
The MEA continues to work with Russian authorities to ensure the safety and repatriation of the remaining Indian nationals. The Indian Embassy in Moscow remains in close contact with the affected families, providing all possible assistance.