New Delhi, October 9, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India is in discussions with Russia to secure the return of 69 Indian nationals believed to still be serving in the Russian military, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday, reiterating its concern over the recruitment of Indians into the Russian armed forces amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said around 259 Indian citizens were believed to have been recruited into the Russian Army. Of these, 139 had been discharged following efforts by the Indian government and had returned home.
“Currently, we are in discussions with the Russian government regarding 69 people who we believe are still with the Russian military, seeking details about where they are and how they can be brought back,” Jaiswal said during the MEA’s bi-weekly press briefing in New Delhi.
Asked whether the government had figures for Indian nationals who had acquired Russian citizenship, Jaiswal said it did not maintain such data, as its records covered Indian citizens.
“If you want to know who has taken Russian citizenship, you will have to ask the Russian Embassy or their Ministry of Foreign Affairs based in Moscow,” he added.
The MEA has repeatedly warned Indian nationals against accepting offers to join the Russian armed forces, citing the serious risks to their lives amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
On Wednesday, the ministry reiterated its concern over reports of Indians joining Russian forces despite repeated advisories, including one issued on September 30.
“It is fraught with danger to life, grave danger to life. In spite of our repeated reminders of our advisories, including the last one on 30th September, we continue to see reports about Indian nationals joining Russian forces. This is obviously a matter of deep concern,” Jaiswal said.
Last week, the government again strongly discouraged Indian nationals from seeking recruitment into the Russian armed forces, describing the move as a dangerous course of action amid the continuing conflict.
In a fresh advisory for Indians travelling to Russia, the MEA said reports of Indian nationals being recruited into the Russian military continued despite repeated warnings over the past two years about the risks involved.
The ministry has also urged Indian citizens to exercise caution when pursuing employment opportunities abroad and avoid being lured by job offers from unverified individuals.
India continues to engage with Russian authorities to establish the whereabouts of the remaining 69 individuals and facilitate their return.
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