MEA on ‘forcing’ Indians to fight for Russia in Ukraine war

Posted on by

The Indian government on Friday officially acknowledged that many Indian citizens are trapped in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The government is coordinating with Russian authorities to facilitate the release of Indians who have allegedly been duped into military service.

Recent reports indicate that many Indians were promised supporting roles, but were later recruited into the Russian army with confusing translations of documents and unexpected military training.

“We are aware that some Indian nationals have signed up for supporting jobs with the Russian Army. The Indian Embassy has regularly taken up this matter with the Russian authorities concerned for their prompt discharge. We appeal to all Indian nationals as appropriate. We urge caution and stay away from this conflict,” Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement issued today.

The family of Sufiyan, a Hyderabad man, along with AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi have sought intervention from the Center and the External Affairs Ministry, raising concerns, NDTV reported. They are demanding the safe evacuation of stranded Indian citizens and strict action against the fraudulent agents responsible for their plight.

According to the report, Sufiyan’s brother Imran revealed the deceptive tactics adopted by the agents linked to Faisal Khan, who runs a YouTube channel named ‘Baba Vlogs’. The suspects were reportedly promised supporting roles, but were ultimately drafted into the Russian army.

With nine Indians reportedly facing danger and injuries within Ukrainian borders, distressed families are seeking assistance from the Centre. Owaisi has written a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar requesting his intervention to bring back the affected Indians.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict, now in its third year, is raising concerns about the safety and well-being of individuals caught amid the ongoing hostilities.