The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Monday that several Indian individuals employed as support staff by the Russian army have been discharged following India's request.
Emphasizing the issue as a "top priority," India affirmed its commitment to actively pursuing the release of Indian nationals from service in the Russian military, engaging closely with Russian authorities to facilitate their early discharge.
Reports circulating in the media suggest that some Indians employed as security aides in the Russian military were compelled to engage in combat alongside Russian soldiers, particularly in regions bordering Ukraine.
In response to these reports, the MEA issued a statement dismissing any inaccuracies and affirming that every instance brought to the attention of the Indian embassy in Moscow has been vigorously addressed with Russian officials. Similarly, cases highlighted to the Ministry have been promptly taken up with the Russian embassy in New Delhi.
The MEA confirmed that a number of Indian nationals have already been successfully discharged from service in response to these efforts.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had previously underscored New Delhi's ongoing dialogue with Moscow to secure the swift discharge of Indian support staff from the Russian army, urging Indian citizens to steer clear of the conflict zone in Ukraine and exercise caution.
Amidst growing concerns, Asaduddin Owaisi, leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), had earlier appealed to the MEA to intervene and ensure the safe return of Indian nationals involved in the situation.
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