16 Indian nationals Fighting for Russian Army Declared Missing, 12 Killed in Ukraine War: MEA
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In a shocking revelation, the Ministry of external Affairs (MEA) announced on Friday that at least 16 Indian nationals deployed by the Russian Army to fight in Ukraine are missing, while 12 have been killed in the ongoing conflict. This advancement comes after the death of Binil Babu, a Kerala native recruited by the Russian military, and the injury of another Indian national, Jain T.K.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a briefing, “as of today, there have been 126 cases (of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army). Of these 126 cases, 96 people have returned to India and have been discharged from the Russian Armed Forces. 18 Indian nationals in the Russian Army remain, and out of them, the whereabouts of 16 individuals are not known.”
Russia has categorized the 16 missing individuals as “missing,” and India is actively seeking their early release and repatriation. The MEA has also extended its condolences to the family of Binil Babu, who was killed in the conflict, and is working with Russian authorities to repatriate his mortal remains. Jain T.K.,who is currently receiving treatment in Moscow,is expected to return to India once his recovery is complete.
The Recruitment of Indian Nationals by the Russian army
The issue of Indian nationals being recruited by the Russian Army has been a contentious one. Many were reportedly lured by agents with promises of lucrative jobs or education opportunities, only to find themselves deployed to the frontlines in Ukraine.
- 126 Indians were recruited by the Russian Army.
- 96 have returned to India.
- 12 have been killed in the conflict.
- 18 remain in the Russian Army, with 16 declared missing.
binil Babu (32) and Jain T.K. (27), both ITI mechanical diploma holders, had traveled to Russia on April 4, 2024, hoping to work as electricians and plumbers. However, upon arrival, their passports were confiscated, and they were forced into the Russian Military Support Service.
India’s Diplomatic Efforts
India has repeatedly raised the issue with Russia, demanding the early discharge of its nationals. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow in July 2024, he “strongly” raised the matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Following this, Russia promised the early discharge of all Indian nationals from its military service.The MEA has also called for a “verified stop to any further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army,” emphasizing that such activities are not in line with the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Human Trafficking and Recruitment scams
The recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army has been linked to human trafficking networks. In May 2024, Indian police arrested four individuals allegedly involved in luring young men to Russia with false promises of jobs or education, only to force them into military service.
Key Statistics
| Category | Number |
|—————————-|————|
| Total Indians recruited | 126 |
| Indians returned to India | 96 |
| Indians Killed in Conflict | 12 |
| Indians Still Serving | 18 |
| Indians Declared Missing | 16 |
Calls to Action
The MEA has urged Indian nationals to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to fraudulent recruitment schemes. Families of those affected are encouraged to contact the Indian embassy in Moscow for assistance.
Conclusion
The plight of indian nationals caught in the crossfire of the Ukraine-Russia conflict underscores the need for stronger international cooperation to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals. As India continues to push for the safe return of its citizens,the global community must address the broader implications of such recruitment practices.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to News18.
Exclusive Interview: The Plight of indian Nationals Recruited by the Russian Army in Ukraine
In a shocking development, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) recently revealed that 16 indian nationals deployed by the Russian Army to fight in Ukraine are missing, while 12 have been killed in the ongoing conflict. This revelation has sparked international concern and raised questions about the recruitment practices of foreign nationals by the Russian military. To shed light on this critical issue, we spoke with Dr.Anjali Rao, a leading expert on international security and human trafficking, who has closely followed the situation.
The Recruitment of Indian Nationals by the Russian Army
Senior Editor: Dr. Rao, thank you for joining us. Can you explain how Indian nationals are being recruited by the Russian Army, and what are the implications of this practice?
Dr. Anjali Rao: Thank you for having me. The recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army is deeply troubling. Manny of these individuals were lured by agents with promises of lucrative jobs or educational opportunities. Though, upon arrival in Russia, their passports were confiscated, and they were coerced into military service. this is not just a violation of their rights but also a clear case of human trafficking. The fact that 126 Indians were recruited, with 12 killed and 16 missing, highlights the gravity of the situation.
India’s Diplomatic Efforts
Senior Editor: What steps has the Indian government taken to address this issue, and how effective have these efforts been?
Dr. Anjali Rao: The Indian government has been actively engaging with Russian authorities to secure the release and repatriation of its nationals. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Moscow in July 2024, he raised the issue with President Vladimir Putin, leading to a promise from Russia to discharge all indian nationals from military service. So far, 96 individuals have returned to India, but 18 remain, with 16 of them missing. The MEA has also called for a verified stop to further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army, emphasizing that such activities are inconsistent with the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Human Trafficking and Recruitment Scams
Senior Editor: This situation seems to be linked to human trafficking networks. Can you elaborate on how these networks operate and what measures are being taken to dismantle them?
Dr. anjali Rao: Absolutely. The recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army is part of a broader human trafficking network. in May 2024,Indian police arrested four individuals involved in luring young men to Russia with false promises of jobs or education,only to force them into military service. These networks prey on vulnerable individuals, frequently enough from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and exploit their aspirations for a better life. Combating these networks requires international cooperation, stricter enforcement of anti-trafficking laws, and greater awareness among potential victims.
The Broader Implications
Senior Editor: What are the broader implications of this issue for international relations and global security?
Dr. Anjali Rao: This issue has notable implications for international relations and global security.The use of foreign nationals in military conflicts undermines international norms and raises ethical concerns. It also strains diplomatic relations between countries, as seen in the case of India and Russia.Moreover, it highlights the need for stronger international cooperation to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals. The global community must address the root causes of such recruitment practices and work towards creating safer and more equitable opportunities for all.
Conclusion and calls to Action
Senior Editor: what advice would you give to Indian nationals and their families to avoid falling victim to such recruitment scams?
Dr.Anjali Rao: It’s crucial for Indian nationals to remain vigilant and thoroughly verify any job or educational opportunities abroad. Families should be aware of the risks and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The MEA has urged affected families to contact the Indian embassy in Moscow for assistance. Additionally,there needs to be greater awareness campaigns to educate people about the dangers of such scams and the importance of seeking legitimate opportunities through verified channels.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rao, for your insights. This is a critical issue that demands immediate attention and action from both national and international stakeholders.
Dr. Anjali Rao: Thank you for raising awareness about this critically important issue. It’s imperative that we continue to shine a light on such practices and work towards ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals.
