India has expressed deep concern and sorrow as two more of its citizens, recruited by the Russian Army, have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This brings the total number of Indian casualties to four, prompting urgent action from Indian authorities.
The Ministry of External Affairs in India issued a strong statement, emphasizing that the country has taken up the matter with Russia, demanding the immediate release and return of all Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army.
In their official communication, Indian officials stressed the need for a verified halt to the recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian military, asserting that such actions are not aligned with the partnership between the two nations.
Expressing condolences to the bereaved families, the Ministry affirmed that the Indian Embassy in Moscow is actively engaging with Russian authorities, including the Ministry of Defence, to ensure the timely repatriation of the deceased.
This unfortunate incident follows the deaths of two other Indian nationals earlier this year. In March, Mohammed Asfan from Hyderabad succumbed to injuries sustained while serving with Russian troops. Prior to that, in February, Hemal Ashwinbhai Mangua from Surat died in a Ukrainian air strike while working as a security helper in the Donetsk region.
Indian officials have been proactive in addressing the issue, with both the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian embassy in Moscow exerting pressure on Russian authorities for the safe return of Indian nationals enlisted in the Russian Army.
The statement from the Ministry of External Affairs coincided with Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra’s attendance at the Russian National Day reception, underscoring India’s commitment to engaging with Russia while prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Reports indicate that approximately 200 Indian nationals were recruited as security helpers in the Russian military, highlighting the scale of the issue. However, there is some relief as ten Indian support staff working with the Russian military have been released and repatriated to India, according to official sources.
As tensions persist in the region, India remains vigilant in safeguarding the interests and lives of its citizens involved in international conflicts, urging for swift and decisive action to prevent further loss of life.
